Keys to the game:
Perimeter defense is going to be the priority call of the night. The Blazers have a potential hall of fame backcourt in McCollum and Lillard. The two of them share the scoring and are momentum changers all on their own.
McCollum shoulders the scoring load for the first three quarters. The fourth is Lillard time. Slowing these two down is crucial. Having Burton and Ferguson back is going to be critical for the Thunder.
If the Blazers have a defensive weakness it is Carmelo Anthony. He will be matched up against the shooting sensation Danilo Gallinari who has been feasting off his outside shot for the season. He is also starting to drive more as players are playing him tighter on the perimeter.
With Rodney Hood tearing his Achilles against the Los Angeles Lakers the Blazers have lost a key floor spacing piece. They have plenty of backup off the bench but this will also hurt their depth.
The matchup of the night is going to be Adams and Whiteside though. The backcourt of Portland are going to get theirs, the wildcard is always Whiteside. Getting him in early foul trouble allows the Thunder to pack the paint. Keeping him off the offensive glass cuts down on second-chance opportunities that led to easy points.