Game Preview: OKC Thunder looks to coup d’etat the Kings
OKC Thunder gets a lucky break once again. The unstable player availability could be the perfect recipe for disaster, but the schedule lines OKC up with a struggling Sacramento team with hopes of keeping the win-streak alive. Game day breaks down the match.
In late October, the Chesapeake Arena erupted with cheers as Westbrook made his season debut hosting the Sacramento Kings. Despite Westbrook and George‘s efforts, combining for 61 of the team’s total 120 points, the Kings’ tyranny took over. It was the third notch in OKC’s 0-4 start, but a lot has changed in 29 days.
Since granting the Kings their first win of the season, OKC Thunder has compiled a 10-5 record to occupy No. 3 in the Western Conference, eight slots ahead of the 8-8 Kings. The redemption chance couldn’t come at a better time as OKC could be without two of their starting five for a second consecutive game.
OKC is coming off a 10-point victory over Phoenix Saturday night, the team’s tenth win in its last eleven, despite a significant chunk of the roster being unavailable. It was an oddly satisfying win as Thunder fans aren’t acquainted with being comfortable in Westbrook‘s absence.
Russell Westbrook is listed as out for tomorrow’s game against the Kings, but because of personal reasons, not the ankle sprain.
— Royce Young (@royceyoung) November 18, 2018
With Westbrook confirmed to be out tonight per Royce Young, and Ferguson and Abrines still with question marks, it’s extremely important for every player to be prepared to take on a role they may not be accustomed to yet.
Just a few weeks ago, this would be a cause for concern, but now as the team’s chemistry has increasingly evolved, it’s a great opportunity to make a statement for this team that has faced so much criticism.