Los Angeles Clippers Vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
The Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers are set to clash in an exciting matchup on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 08:00 PM ET at the Crypto.com Arena (Los Angeles). Here’s a comprehensive preview of the game, including betting odds, and a game prediction.
Match Prediction Oklahoma City Thunder vs Los Angeles Clippers
This is a tough one to call. The Clippers have the edge in experience and defense, but their offensive struggles and George’s absence raise concerns. The Thunder are hungry and playing with confidence, but their overall talent gap is undeniable.
Here’s my take:
- If Kawhi Leonard has a vintage performance and the Clippers’ defense locks down Gilgeous-Alexander, they can win by a comfortable margin.
- However, if Leonard struggles or the Thunder gets hot from three, the upset is definitely in play.
Final prediction: Clippers win a close one, but the Thunder cover the spread.
Head to Head
The Los Angeles Clippers hold a comfortable lead in the all-time series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, currently boasting a 48-27 record. However, their recent matchups have been much closer, with the Clippers winning three of the last five encounters, but the Thunder securing a dominant 128-113 victory back in January.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Los Angeles Clippers Preview
Los Angeles Clippers: Currently 5th in the Western Conference with a 27-22 record. Their offensive struggles have been well-documented, averaging a pedestrian 110.2 points per game (22nd in the NBA). However, their defense remains elite, ranking 4th in points allowed per game (107.5). Kawhi Leonard’s return from injury has boosted their morale, but his consistency remains a question mark.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Sitting 11th in the Western Conference with a 19-28 record. Despite their lower standing, they’ve played scrappy and competitively, exceeding expectations for a young rebuilding team. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as a superstar, averaging 31.5 points per game (3rd in the NBA). Their athleticism and fast-paced style can cause problems for even the best teams.
Los Angeles Clippers vs Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Odds
- Moneyline: Clippers -175 | Thunder +145
- Spread: Clippers -4.5 (-108) | Thunder +4.5 (-112)
- Over/Under: 232.5 (O: -110 | U: -110
Key Matchup:
- The battle between Kawhi Leonard and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be a highlight. Leonard’s defensive prowess will be tested against Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring arsenal. Whoever controls their matchup could swing the game’s momentum.
Injuries:
- Paul George’s absence from the Clippers due to a shoulder injury remains a significant blow to their offensive firepower.
- The Thunder are relatively healthy, with only Mike Muscala (ankle) listed as questionable.
FAQs for Oklahoma City Thunder vs Los Angeles Clippers
Is Oklahoma City good at basketball?
Despite having the NBA’s youngest roster, the Oklahoma City Thunder currently sport the second-best record in the Western Conference. At 23-9, they’re only a game behind the West-leading Minnesota Timberwolves despite having faced the sixth-toughest strength of schedule to date.
Why are the Clippers in Los Angeles?
In 1981 the Clippers were sold to Donald Sterling, a Los Angeles-based real estate mogul, who moved the team to his home city in 1984. The team did not fare any better in its new home, finishing with a losing record in each season from 1984–85 to 1990–91.
Why is Oklahoma City called the Thunder?
On September 3, 2008, the team name, logo, and colors for the Oklahoma City franchise were revealed to the public. The name “Thunder” was chosen due to Oklahoma being a frequent victim of powerful storms due to its location in Tornado Alley, and Oklahoma City housing the 45th Infantry Division, the Thunderbirds.
When did OKC join the NBA?
The Thunder won the Western Conference title in 2012. The SuperSonics (named for Seattle’s aerospace industry and usually shortened to “the Sonics”) began play as an NBA expansion team in 1967 and were the first major North American sports franchise based in the Pacific Northwest.
How many times has OKC been to the finals?
They reached the Western Conference finals seven times, reaching the NBA Finals in 1978, 1979, 1996, and 2012, winning their only championship in the 1979 NBA Finals against the Washington Bullets whilst in Seattle.
Read More: Philadelphia 76ers Vs Denver Nuggets Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
Conclusion
This promises to be an exciting and competitive matchup. The Clippers have the experience and defensive edge, but their offensive woes and George’s absence are major concerns. The Thunder are young, hungry, and playing with high energy, but their overall talent gap is still noticeable.
