The Oklahoma City Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies are set to face off in Game 4 of their first-round series in the 2025 NBA Playoffs on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Tipoff is scheduled for 3:30 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on TNT. The Thunder lead the series 3-0 after a historic comeback victory in Game 3, putting them one win away from advancing to the second round.
Team Overview:
Oklahoma City Thunder (68-14, 3-0 in series):
The Thunder have been dominant all season, finishing with the best record in the NBA and setting multiple league records, including the most double-digit wins in a single season. In Game 3, Oklahoma City erased a 29-point deficit—the second-largest comeback in NBA playoff history—to secure a 114-108 victory. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 31 points, while Jalen Williams added 26 points and Chet Holmgren contributed key defensive plays in the second half. The Thunder’s defense, anchored by Alex Caruso and Lu Dort, has been exceptional, forcing turnovers and limiting Memphis’ offensive efficiency.
Memphis Grizzlies (48-34, 0-3 in series):
The Grizzlies entered the playoffs as the No. 8 seed after securing their spot through the Play-In Tournament. Despite their underdog status, Memphis has struggled to compete with Oklahoma City’s firepower, losing all three games by an average margin of 22 points. In Game 3, Ja Morant suffered a hip injury late in the first half and did not return, significantly impacting Memphis’ ability to maintain their lead. Scotty Pippen Jr. was a bright spot for the Grizzlies, scoring 23 points in the first half, but he was held to just five points in the second half. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane will need to step up offensively to keep Memphis’ hopes alive.
Key Players to Watch:
Oklahoma City Thunder:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The MVP frontrunner has been dominant in the playoffs, averaging 32 points per game in the series.
- Jalen Williams: Williams has emerged as a reliable scoring option, contributing 26 points in Game 3.
- Chet Holmgren: The rookie center has been a defensive force, altering shots and controlling the paint.
Memphis Grizzlies:
- Jaren Jackson Jr.: The Defensive Player of the Year will need to anchor Memphis’ defense and contribute offensively.
- Desmond Bane: Bane’s scoring ability and three-point shooting are crucial for Memphis to stay competitive.
- Scotty Pippen Jr.: After a strong first half in Game 3, Pippen will look to replicate his performance and provide a spark for the Grizzlies.
Matchup Analysis:
Offense vs. Defense:
Oklahoma City’s efficient offense, led by Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams, will test Memphis’ defense, which has struggled to contain the Thunder’s shooters. Conversely, Memphis will need to find ways to break through Oklahoma City’s suffocating defense, which has forced turnovers and disrupted their rhythm.
Momentum:
The Thunder enter Game 4 with confidence after their historic comeback in Game 3, while the Grizzlies are facing elimination and will need to play with urgency to extend the series.
Home Advantage:
Memphis will look to capitalize on their home crowd at FedExForum, but they will need a complete team effort to overcome Oklahoma City’s dominance.
Game Odds
Oklahoma City Thunder – 15
Memphis Grizzlies 222
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025
