OKC Thunder prepare to disrupt Cavs with spirited opening quarter

OKC Thunder rejuvenated:

The OKC Thunder return from a well-deserved break following a hectic start to 2020. They now get back into action with five games in the next 14 days before All-Star weekend.

As a result of this, they look to take advantage of the break they’ve had to come out full of energy against the Cavs.

These four days without a game gave OKC the chance to recover and refuel after having a stretch of injuries that was most likely a result of all the travel and games throughout January.

Due to this a spirited opening to the game will be key to getting the win. If the Thunder can get a steady scoring pattern going early this will allow them to get a good lead and will be hard for the Cavs to adapt to.

Cavs third quarter woes:

Cleveland showed significant improvements in their third quarter exertion against the Knicks. They made an efficient 15 of 20 field goals and outscored New York 38-32 by the end of the quarter.

Prior to this, they were beaten 106-68 in three of their last losses in the third quarter. A key for the Cavs in this game is carrying on their accuracy and persistent attitude when they played the Knicks.

They are capable of doing this and this time around it will be about going the full distance.

OKC Thunder two-way proficiency:

OKC has the edge in that they are ranked above the Cavs for both offensive and defensive rating. They have players who can cover multiple roles which is difficult to scout.

They are 14th in offense (110.3) and 11th in defense (107.8) whereas Cleveland is 23rd in offense (106.4) and 29th in defense (115.3).

The offense should be humming for OKC as they have the upper hand when it comes to preventing the opposition from getting to their usual spots and sinking their shots.