OKC Thunder look to bounce back against Timberwolves: game preview

Keys to the game:

If history is anything to go by, then this may be one of Andrew Wiggins’ more dominant performances. He did not play in their first encounter with the OKC Thunder this season but has always stepped up when playing them especially in OKC. He averages 26 points against the Thunder and has been the catalyst for huge wins that the Thunder would rather forget.

However recently, he hasn’t been the same player but is still putting up an average of 23.6 points. If he can get back on track and provide a prominent contribution for his team, the Thunder will need to be careful.

Three key things the OKC Thunder need to make sure they master in this game is their defense, decision making, and efficiency. Making shots is one thing but staying accurate and making sure you’re not settling for just any jumper is another.

Terrance Ferguson was sensational in his matchup with James Harden on Thursday. When looking back at one of the players who really made the difference in OKC winning or losing that game, it’s hard not to pick Ferg. That’s why the Thunder need him to bring that intensity in every game.

The Thunder’s lineup of Chris Paul, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Dennis Schroder, Danilo Gallinari, and Steven Adams may have the best net rating in the league of +30.1, but the Timberwolves are 11th in offense.

With that in mind, a cautionary tale against the Lakers isn’t going to decide their entire season. Anything can happen but OKC has come all this way and should be able to win this game.