Oklahoma City Thunder storm Memphis with eyes on a 10th straight win
The Oklahoma City Thunder are riding high with the best record in the NBA at 9-1 as they prepare to face the Memphis Grizzlies at FedEx Forum on Sunday. Fresh off a commanding victory against the Sacramento Kings, the Thunder’s dynamic duo of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Isaiah Hartenstein combined for an impressive 63 points in their last game, showcasing their offensive prowess.
Game Details and Context
Sunday’s matchup is set for 6:10 p.m. EST, and fans can catch the action on the FanDuel Sports Network. Both teams are coming off notable victories; the Thunder overwhelmed the Kings with a 132-101 scoreline, while the Grizzlies ended their four-game losing streak by defeating the Dallas Mavericks 118-104. This win was significant for Memphis, as they managed to limit their opponents to their second-lowest points total of the season.
Ja Morant’s contributions were critical for the Grizzlies, as he recorded season-highs with 13 assists to complement his scoring effort, despite also tallying seven turnovers. Meanwhile, the Thunder welcomed Chet Holmgren back to the lineup, who had sat out one game of a back-to-back prior. Holmgren’s presence alongside Hartenstein, who dominated with 33 points and 19 rebounds, proved to be a game-changer against Sacramento.
Thunder’s Dominance and Grizzlies’ Struggles
The Thunder’s recent form has positioned them as clear favorites against the Grizzlies, who have struggled against teams with winning records this season. Memphis has yet to secure a victory against opponents above .500, raising concerns as they face the reigning champions. The Thunder are not only looking to extend their win streak to ten games but also to solidify their dominance over the Grizzlies, having swept them in last season’s playoffs.
Historically, Oklahoma City has fared well against Memphis, boasting a nine-game winning streak in regular-season play against the Grizzlies since December 2022. However, they have only managed to win three of those games on the road at FedEx Forum. The all-time series reflects further struggles for Memphis, who sit at 35-74 against the Thunder, with a dismal 9-36 record against the former Seattle Supersonics.
Injury Report and Starting Lineups
As both teams gear up for the clash, injuries could play a pivotal role in the outcome. The Thunder’s injury report lists Luguentz Dort as questionable due to a right upper trap strain, while Jalen Williams, Aaron Wiggins, Kenrich Williams, and Thomas Sorber are all out recovering from various injuries.
For the Grizzlies, Brandon Clarke and Zach Edey are sidelined due to surgery recovery, along with Ty Jerome and Scotty Pippen Jr. who are also out. Santi Aldama is questionable with left shoulder soreness, while GG Jackson and PJ Hall are probable to return from G League assignments.
Coaching Perspectives
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault expressed confidence in Hartenstein’s growing comfort within the team’s system. He noted, “He’s only gotten better, especially on the offensive end of the floor, just finding his way. It’s good that we can play big like that and also maintain some offensive fluidity. That’s the skill level of Chet and Hart that allows you to do that.”
As the Thunder aim to secure their tenth win, the stakes are high for both teams, with Memphis looking to right the ship against a formidable opponent.
