Game preview: OKC Thunder look to get back in win column vs. Embiid-less 76ers

The OKC Thunder hold the longest active win streak versus an opponent with 19 over the 76ers. Gameday preview examines how they can make it 20 in a row.

It’s funny how history repeats itself. When the OKC Thunder and Philadelphia 76ers played on January 19th, OKC was mired in a mini-slump having lost five of their last six games. They battled pulling out a 117-115 victory which kick started a Thunder winning stretch of seven in a row and 11 of their next 12.

Flash forward to the current calendar and the Thunder are once again in a mini-slump having lost three of their last four games. So, if you’re a superstitious individual the fact the 76ers are in Oklahoma City to complete the season series might be a good sign.

Mind you, this 76ers team has made significant alterations since the January 19, game. Moreover, Philadelphia will be missing at least two key contributors including their superstar, Joel Embiid.

Looking at the three recent losses one was the last game prior to the break. It’s hard enough to keep players focused for that pre-break game but OKC – NOP was the absolute last game played in the NBA. Think about being at your job knowing you’re going on vacation in an hour and the lack of focus is a bit more understandable.

Likewise, the Kings loss was within three points and occurred on a back to back which took double overtime to complete. The last loss was the one that hurt the most because it meant Denver owns the tiebreak and barring a losing streak by the Nuggets coupled with a win streak by OKC it’s unlikely the Thunder will be able to move past them into second or higher now.

With that let’s dive into the specifics for how the Thunder get back on track to capture the victory.