Game Preview: How OKC Thunder can execute an effortless win over Cleveland

With the 4-15 Cavaliers up next, OKC Thunder has a chance to build confidence in the team’s talent if they can stay true to individual strengths. Gameday breaks down the target areas.

Following the top-seat battle with Denver on Saturday, TI’s Tamberlyn Richardson pinpointed an identity crisis for the Thunder. OKC has established defensive credibility this season, with the highest defensive rating of the league at 102.6. As Richardson pointed out, OKC fell short in Saturday’s game with regards to the team’s defensive expectations.

OKC Thunder is a fast-paced, aggressive team. Usually, their offense trickles from their success on defense, forcing turnovers and executing fast-break baskets and second-chance points off offensive rebounds. Even though Cleveland may seem to be a layup team with only four wins on the season, OKC has to play regularly and not go through the motions and take the Cavs lightly.

Falling to Denver placed the Thunder second in the conference, a feat that seemed far-reached considering the amount of sickness and injury the team has faced. The climb back to the top of the standings despite the odds is only more testimony to the players’ talent and determination. Staying true to individual talents and utilizing those talents in the correct game time situations will be key to our continued success.

The excuse of injuries and inconsistent starting lineups is something Cleveland is familiar with as well. As of Tuesday, ESPN.com has five players listed as out or questionable for the Cavs. Without a full, healthy roster it is difficult for a team to establish a consistent game flow. Tonight’s game may be a battle of who can work with what they’ve got with whichever five players are on the court the best.

In Saturday’s game, obvious target areas were identified, giving the team key points to focus on lined up with a perfect game opportunity to make those changes and move on from the loss with a win in the ‘Peake.