Thunder’s Struggles Exposed by Spurs in Stunning Three-Game Sweep
Oklahoma City is experiencing an unexpected downturn in their otherwise stellar season. After a historic start of 24-1, which tied the best opening in NBA history through 25 games, the Thunder have stumbled, losing four of their last six games, including three consecutive defeats at the hands of the San Antonio Spurs. Just weeks ago, discussions centered on the Thunder potentially breaking the Golden State Warriors’ 73-9 record. Now, the narrative has shifted to the Spurs seemingly being the Thunder’s kryptonite.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s star guard, candidly acknowledged the situation after Thursday’s loss, stating, “You don’t lose to a team three times in a row in a short span without them being better than you.” The Spurs have clearly outperformed Oklahoma City in recent matchups, capitalizing on the Thunder’s vulnerabilities at a crucial time.
Injuries Hamper Thunder’s Key Players
The struggles of Oklahoma City’s supporting cast, particularly Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, have added to the team’s woes. Both players have been underwhelming, likely due to lingering injuries. Williams is still recovering from wrist surgery, while Holmgren has been hampered by back spasms and illness. Their subpar performances in these three games starkly contrast with the potential they have shown earlier in the season. Despite this, the Thunder remain hopeful that their talents will resurface as they heal.
Compounding these issues, the Thunder were without backup point guard Ajay Mitchell for two of the three games due to concussion protocol. Mitchell’s absence was particularly felt against the Spurs, who possess an elite defense. Oklahoma City has struggled to generate half-court offense consistently over the past two seasons, and without Mitchell, they missed a critical playmaker who could create opportunities and penetrate defenses.
Spurs’ Defense Stifles Thunder Offense
The Spurs’ defensive prowess was evident in their recent victories. In the last two games, they committed just 12 and 9 turnovers, showcasing their ability to control the ball against a Thunder team that excels at forcing giveaways. The only exception came in the first meeting, where the Spurs had 19 turnovers but still managed to narrowly lose to Oklahoma City.
This ability to protect the ball forced the Thunder into a half-court offense that relied too heavily on jump shots, particularly given the recent cold streak from their shooters. The Spurs’ relentless point-of-attack defense, coupled with the presence of Victor Wembanyama—arguably the league’s best shot-blocker—created a daunting challenge for Oklahoma City. The Spurs deftly surrendered corner threes to less reliable shooters, but their overall strategy was effective in stifling the Thunder’s offensive rhythm.
Thunder’s Defensive Lapses
Defensively, the Thunder also fell short of their typical standards. They failed to generate turnovers and struggled against the Spurs’ diverse lineup, which combined size and athleticism in a way that exposed Oklahoma City’s defensive schemes. With a significant focus on containing Wembanyama, the Thunder found it difficult to protect the paint or contest shots effectively, yielding a performance that was inconsistent with their earlier season form.
Despite the Spurs’ recent successes, it is essential to maintain perspective. While they are currently playing some of their best basketball, the Thunder are grappling with challenges at a time when their trajectory has shifted downward. The balance of power may be in flux, but the season is long, and teams often ebb and flow.
A New Contender Emerges
Heading into the season, the Denver Nuggets were widely viewed as the only significant threat to the Thunder in the postseason. However, after this recent stretch, the Spurs have inserted themselves into that conversation. As the playoff picture begins to take shape, Oklahoma City must address these weaknesses and find a way to regain their form before it becomes too late. The Spurs may have exposed vulnerabilities, but the Thunder still possess the potential to adapt and overcome as the season progresses.
