Game Preview: OKC Thunder seek to continue home cooking vs. Knickerbockers

The OKC Thunder are experiencing success against the NBA’s lower-tier teams so far in the 2018-19 campaign. Will their winning ways continue tonight vs. the Knicks?

Last season the OKC Thunder struggled against the NBA’s lower-tier teams. Specifically, the Thunder possessed a record of 26-15 against non-playoff teams. While that record is 11 games over .500, 15 losses to inferior competition is far too many. This season Oklahoma City is off to a decent start against lower-tier clubs, going 7-3 against teams ESPN projected to miss the playoffs and under performing squads such as the Houston Rockets and Washington Wizards.

With the New York Knicks visiting the Peake this evening the Thunder’s focus will be tested once again. Due to the Thunder starting 0-4 this season, there is little to no room for error against lower-tier squads.

PG’s ‘Peroneal’ dilemma

Paul George‘s leadership and killer instinct have been questioned during the six games starting point guard Russell Westbrook has missed this season. Considering PG is Oklahoma City’s second All-Star he is expected to step up during his running mates absence. The Thunder have performed fairly in Russ’s absence going 3-3, but the record more so reflects team-wide success rather than a single individual carrying the load.

One reason PG may not be playing to the best of his abilities could be contributed to the ongoing battle with his Peroneal Nerve. Following the Phoenix game PG did the post-game interview on Fox Sports Oklahoma. When he was asked about why he played so well (34-points, eight rebounds, six assists) George credited the fact his body felt so good. Therefore, PG’s sub par play in my opinion  is linked to his health rather than other alternatives.

Turning attention to the Knicks

Tonight the Knicks bring a 4-10 record into the Peake, they are 3-7 in their last ten games and possess a negative point differential of minus -5.2. New York ranks 22nd in points per game (106.4). The Knicks are tied with the Warriors and Heat in 17th allowing opponents to score 111.6 points  per game.

The Knicks remain without their best player Kristaps Porzingis as he rehabs from a left ACL tear. Interestingly the Knicks and Porzingis failed to reach a rookie extension prior to the deadline on October 15, the day before the new season began.

There is a myriad of possibilities why Porzingis did not sign an extension including, the Knicks offer was too low due to the 7-footers injury history. Both sides agreed to bypass an extension in order give the Knicks hefty cap flexibility for 2019 free agency.

Or, perhaps Porzingis does not want to stay in New York? There are more questions than answers regarding the relationship status between the Knickerbockers and the Zinger, but the situation will resolve itself in July, or potentially sooner if, New York elects to move him.