Thunder Gameday: Start of Tough Stretch as Oklahoma City Hosts Phoenix
In this story:
The Oklahoma City Thunder's next four games are against teams in the Western Conference postseason picture. This stint will start this afternoon against the Phoenix Suns at home before the team hits the road.
Phoenix is 15-20 on the road this season, which is a primary reason the Suns aren't higher in the standings. The Thunder are 21-15 at home, playing well in front of their home crowd at Paycom Center.
This contest will have an impact on both teams as it relates to postseason positioning in the West.
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
ODDS:
The Thunder enter the day as 1.5-point underdogs to the Suns, and the total over/under is 234.5 points.
KEYS TO THE GAME:
Kevin Durant is still out with an ankle injury, meaning he won't be playing in this afternoon's contest. Landry Shamet is also out with a foot injury while Deandre Ayton will miss with a groin issue, so overall the Suns will be shorthanded in this game.
Regardless, they've still got a ton of talent and will be a tough test for Oklahoma City today. Devin Booker is one of the most lethal scorers in the league and can go for 50 at any time.
On the other end of the court, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as a superstar guard in his own right this season. The head-to-head matchup between him and Booker will be fascinating in this game.
Additionally for the Thunder, the production of Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey will also be key.
RECORDS:
Oklahoma City Thunder (34-36) vs. Phoenix Suns (38-32)
WHEN:
Sunday, March 19, 2023 at 2:30 PM CT
LOCATION:
Paycom Center - Oklahoma City, OK
TV/RADIO:
Bally Sports Oklahoma, NBA League Pass, 98.1 FM The Sports Animal
FINAL WORD:
Following this contest, the Thunder will kick off a road trip against the LA Clippers on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Suns will also travel to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers.
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