OKC Thunder: 3 keys to victory tonight vs Orlando
By Mark Nilon
OKC Thunder key No. 3) Force Orlando’s shooters into the mid-range
As we said in the previous slide, the modern NBA is highly dependent on the 3-point shot.
Yes, it is imperative for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to start making his long ball, but perhaps equally as important is for the OKC Thunder defense to stop Orlando’s marksmen from knocking them down from deep.
While the team only ranks in at 12th in the league in 3-point percentage (35.7 percent), they roster two of the best shooters in 2020-21 so far in Terrence Ross and Evan Fournier.
As things currently stand, both are converting on these types of shots at a 52.6 and 40 percent clip, respectively.
The red-hot magic have been scorching opposing teams from beyond the arc to start. A sound gameplan: force them into mid-range shots.
Luckily for OKC, they will only need to focus in on a handful of threats from this range, as six of Orlando’s players shoot well below 30 percent. However, the four that are above this threshold are hot.
Take away the long-ball, and you’re well on your way to a 2-1 record. However, give them an open look, and it could wind up being a very long and high-scoring night.
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