On November 30, 2023, the Portland Trail Blazers are set to host the Oklahoma City Thunder at 3:00 PM Pacific Time. This match will mark the third encounter between these teams this month. The Blazers previously claimed victory with a close score of 121-119 at the Moda Center on November 5. However, the Thunder managed to bounce back with a win on their home court on November 23, further heightening the stakes for this upcoming clash.
Oklahoma City Thunder’s Dominance
The Thunder currently hold a remarkable record of 19 wins and only 1 loss. They have been achieving victories with an average margin of nearly 16 points per game, which could potentially surpass their own NBA record set last season. Last season’s MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, continues to impress, averaging 32.9 points over just 33.4 minutes per game, often sitting out in blowouts.
Defensive Prowess
Oklahoma City’s defense is statistically the best in the league. They excel in key defensive metrics:
- Tied for the league lead in steals
- Allow the fewest second-chance points
- Permit the lowest points in the paint
- Rank second in fewest fast-break points
This solid defensive foundation is poised to improve further with Jalen Williams’ recent return to the lineup following a 19-game absence. His performance will be crucial as the Thunder look to build on their success.
Portland Trail Blazers’ Journey
The Trail Blazers, sitting at 8-11, aim to rebound from a recent disappointing loss against the San Antonio Spurs, which eliminated them from the NBA Cup. Despite these difficulties, the Blazers find themselves in a favorable position, playing at home and having had several days of rest since their last game.
Key Players Returning
Shaedon Sharpe is back in action after missing four games, contributing 11 points and 5 rebounds in his return. His scoring ability will be essential if the Blazers hope to secure a win against the reigning champions.
Statistical Insights
The Trail Blazers have faced challenges lately, particularly in stealing the ball and maintaining a high pace. They currently rank third in the NBA for pace but have slipped to 16th over the last ten games, struggling defensively:
- 28th in steals
- 27th in overall defensive rating
In terms of three-point shooting, Portland hits the fourth-most three-pointers but holds one of the lowest shooting percentages in the league. Their success from behind the arc will be fundamental in this match.
Stopping Gilgeous-Alexander
Controlling Gilgeous-Alexander will be vital for the Blazers. In their previous meetings, he showcased his scoring ability, with a significant portion of his shots coming from within the paint. Limiting his access to the basket could turn the tide in favor of Portland.
Viewing Information and Injuries
The upcoming showdown can be watched via a variety of platforms:
- Antenna or cable: Rip City Television Network
- Streaming: BlazerVision in Oregon and Washington; League Pass elsewhere
- Radio: Rip City Radio 620AM
Injury updates reveal notable absences for both teams. The Trail Blazers will be missing Scoot Henderson, Damian Lillard, Matisse Thybulle, Blake Wesley, and Jrue Holiday, while the Thunder will be without Nikola Topic, Thomas Sorber, Aaron Wiggins, Ajay Mitchell, and Isaiah Hartenstein.
This matchup promises to be a thrilling contest as the Blazers strive to claim another win over the Thunder, while the reigning champions treat every game as an opportunity to reinforce their dominance in the league.
