Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs 1/24/24 – On Wednesday, Oklahoma City Thunder will take on San Antonio Spurs in an exciting NBA showdown that promises to pit two sides with drastically differing records this season. We’ll offer betting insights as well as breakdown key players, team statistics and trends that could potentially influence this matchup’s outcome – creating an opportunity for some strong NBA top free picks!
| When: | Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 9:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Frost Bank Center |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
📸 https://t.co/ZLErpVhP8Z pic.twitter.com/ybWSSaXGvz
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) January 24, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thunder | -7 -110 | o241.5 -110 | -294 |  |
| Spurs | +7 -110 | u241.5 -110 | +240 | |
| ||||
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) vs. Victor Wembanyama (C)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken his game to new heights this season, emerging as an MVP candidate for the Thunder. He’s averaging career-highs with 31.1 points, 6.3 assists and 2.2 steals per game while shooting 50% from the field. SGA has scored 30+ points in three straight games coming into this matchup. His ability to create his own shot and set up teammates has powered OKC’s offense.
On the other side, Victor Wembanyama has shown flashes of brilliance in his rookie campaign. The 7’4” center is averaging 19.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 3.2 blocks per game. His otherworldly length and athleticism make him a force on both ends. Wembanyama is coming off a 22-point, 12-rebound performance against the Lakers. He could give the Thunder frontcourt trouble with his shot-blocking and rebounding prowess.
This matchup pits SGA’s shot-creating and playmaking against Wembanyama’s towering size and length in the paint. Whichever star can exploit the most favorable matchups for their team could swing the game.
Breaking Down the Thunder’s Hot Streak
The Thunder’s recent strong play can be attributed to an offense that is firing on all cylinders. OKC is netting 121.7 points per contest, good for 3rd best in the NBA. They are shooting an efficient 50.4% from the field and make 13.1 threes per game at a 39.1% clip. SGA is leading the charge with 31.1 points per outing on 50% shooting. OKC’s offense is also aided by its commitment to crashing the offensive glass, where the team grabs 8.4 boards per game. While not elite, the Thunder’s defense has been decent enough to allow the offense to win games. They give up 114 points per game on 46% shooting. However, OKC limits opponents to only 34.6% from three and force over 8 steals per contest. They also dominate the defensive glass, pulling down 32.6 boards per game. OKC’s rebounding prowess on both ends of the court is a true strength.
Analyzing Where the Spurs Struggle
The Spurs hang their hat on defense under Coach Pop, but the team has struggled to get stops recently. On the season, San Antonio allows 110 points per game but that number has ballooned over their last five contests. The Spurs’ opponents have shot over 50% from the field during this 1-4 stretch. On offense, San Antonio moves the ball well, notching 29.3 assists per outing. However, the team lacks a true dynamic go-to scorer. Shooting has also been hit-or-miss for the Spurs. While they put up 37 threes per game, the team only converts 34.6% of these attempts. Generating offense late in close games has been an issue all season long. On the glass, the Spurs battle opponents evenly, grabbing 43 boards while allowing 43 per contest. This lack of rebounding prowess has hurt during their recent slide. OKC should have the clear edge on the boards in this matchup.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The odds are yet to be released, however, the Thunder seems favorable. As always, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the odds as they may change leading up to the game.
Trends
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
Thunder are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
OKC Thunder are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Thunder are 12-8 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Thunder’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Thunder’ 21 last games at home.
San Antonio Spurs Betting Trends
Spurs are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
San Antonio Spurs are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Spurs are 11-12 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Spurs’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 14 of Spurs’ 19 last games at home
Injuries
Oklahoma City Thunder
Olivier Sarr SG Is “?” Wednesday vs San Antonio, Hip
San Antonio Spurs
Tre Jones PG Is “?” Wednesday vs Oklahoma City, Ankle
Charles Bassey C Is out for season, ACL
Sidy Cissoko SG Is downgraded to OUT Wednesday vs Oklahoma City, Ankle
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs Betting Picks
In this matchup, the Thunder have shown stronger recent form while the Spurs have struggled to find consistent play. Yet as shown by betting trends, home teams tend to do better against the spread. Therefore, this match may come down to styles clashing; one being Thunder’s high-scoring offense against Spurs’ defensive strength.
As per current trends, it may seem reasonable to choose Oklahoma City Thunder as the favorite to cover the spread. But don’t underestimate San Antonio Spurs’ disruptive ability or home court advantage as this game could turn out closer than expected; top betting websites provide ample options to place bets. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Thunder 116, Spurs 107.
