The Oklahoma City Thunder are riding high on an impressive 11-game winning streak, capping off a perfect week with victories against Washington, Indiana, Charlotte, and Memphis. As a Thunder beat writer, I’ve had a front-row seat to this remarkable run, and it’s clear that this team is firing on all cylinders.
One of the standout performers during this stretch has been rookie AJ Mitchell. In the past four games, Mitchell has averaged 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists on impressive shooting splits of 65/58/75. He even notched his first career double-double in his first start, showcasing his potential as a valuable contributor off the bench.
The Thunder’s ability to take care of business against teams dealing with injuries or fielding depleted rosters has been crucial. While some might argue that these wins come with an asterisk, it’s important to remember that winning in the NBA is never easy, regardless of the opponent’s circumstances.
Looking Ahead: A Challenging Homestand
The real test for the Thunder begins now, with a five-game homestand featuring some formidable opponents. The upcoming slate includes matchups against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, and Boston Celtics. This stretch will provide a clearer picture of where the Thunder stand among the league’s elite teams.
The game against the Celtics, in particular, stands out as a measuring stick for the Thunder. Boston’s similar style of play, with their emphasis on spacing and transition offense, will offer valuable insights into how Oklahoma City matches up against a championship-caliber team.
The Impact of Injuries
It’s worth noting that the Thunder have dealt with their fair share of injuries this season. Players like Kenrich Williams, Jaylin Williams, and Isaiah Hartenstein have missed time, while Chet Holmgren’s absence continues to loom large. The team’s ability to maintain their winning ways despite these setbacks speaks volumes about their depth and resilience.
As we look ahead to the challenging homestand, it’s clear that the Thunder are ready to be tested against some of the league’s best. While maintaining their current win streak might be a tall order, this stretch will provide valuable experience and help solidify the team’s identity as they push for a strong playoff position.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Thunder’s recent success and upcoming challenges, tune into the Locked On Thunder podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Thunder Podcast:
• The impact of Cason Wallace in the starting lineup
• Analyzing the Thunder’s three-point shooting struggles
• New Year’s resolutions for the Thunder and the NBA
