So how would a series against the Clippers go for the OKC Thunder?
This has been a wild season, the roller coaster never stops, and each moment should really be appreciated. Again, even the most optimistic OKC Thunder fans thought this team could fight for a playoff spot, not firmly be in the playoff picture.
However, a matchup with the L.A. Clippers would be disastrous, I would consider the Clips the worst possible matchup for the OKC Thunder.
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While Lu Dort has been a jaw-dropping defender as a rookie, he lacks the size to bother Kawhi or Paul George. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has the length to keep up with and stay in front of the duo, but that is still a tough tandem to stop.
Dort fouls at almost a three foul clip, per contest, and against the Clippers was charged with three fouls. The saving grace could be Playoff P, if PG13 lacks in the postseason as he has known to in the past, that could crack the door open for the Thunder.
Marcus Morris Sr. also proves a tough task for the boys in blue to slow down, as he spent most of Tuesday’s contest being defended by the non-threatening defensive body of Danilo Gallinari.
As previously mentioned, this is really the only team equipped to handle the OKC Thunder’s three-guard lineup of Chris Paul, Dennis Schroder, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander matching them up with Kawhi, PG, and Beverley.
Even despite this lopsided matchup on paper, the OKC Thunder possesses all the intangibles needed, mixed with a strong homecourt advantage, to push any squad deep into a series. Being the best clutch team in the NBA, and the comeback kids all year long, no game is truly out of reach for the OKC Thunder. I could see this series going at least six games.
As you will see throughout this series, I am much more confident in the OKC Thunder topping every other possible opponent.