OKC Thunder takeaway No. 1) Home games are not so sweet
For the OKC Thunder this season, home-court advantage isn’t a thing. The Thunder have won just one game at home compared to seven on the road.
Statistically, there’s no real reason for the hit at home as the Thunder are scoring 106.9 points per game at home and 107.5 points on the road. The Thunder are performing as well or, in some cases, better at home than they are on the road.
The defense is the glaring exception.
The Thunder have posted a 119.6 defensive rating at home compared to a 108.5 defensive rating on the road. The Thunder’s defense seems to fall apart at home.
Of course, it doesn’t help that the Thunder are without one of their best assets at home this season.
If fans, opposing fans, and opposing teams have learned anything, it’s that “Loud City” lives up to its name. Thunder fans are notoriously loud and loyal, and their absence means everything.
When a player knocks down a clutch 3-pointer, slams home a monster jam, or performs an acrobatic layup that leaves defenders scratching their heads, there’s nothing but empty seats witnessing the magical moments.
The Thunder needs their fans. Without them, there’s little to motivate the players in those late-game situations.