OKC Thunder vs. Knicks: 3 winning keys and priority matchups
Julius Randle:
The Knicks’ Julius Randle is a player to look out for. He is arguably their best player leading the team in points (19.4), rebounds (9.8) and assists (3.2).
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In the last 10 games, he has shot 47.3 percent from the floor and done everything he can to help his team win games. Randle has also developed into a leader for the Knicks at only 25, contributing not just in scoring but in all areas of his game.
Whether it’s Lu Dort or Steven Adams that has the job of defending him, he’s going to be tough to guard.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander versus RJ Barrett:
It will be Canadian against Canadian when SGA and the Knicks’ rookie RJ Barrett take the floor. Barrett had a stellar performance when his side defeated Houston, scoring 27 points and adding 5 rebounds and 5 assists. He then recorded 14 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists against the Jazz.
The 2019 third pick is a talented player no doubt, averaging 14.1 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.
He hasn’t garnered much attention compared to other rookies like Ja Morant or Zion Williamson but he’s shown glimpses of why so many teams wanted him coming into the season.
Barrett’s counterpart, Gilgeous-Alexander is a savvy, smooth scoring assassin. He’s efficient, has great decision making and gets to the basket with ease.
Despite the height advantage, you get the sense the pair will relish getting to go up against each other.