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NBA Preview: Oklahoma City Thunder (32-6) vs Philadelphia Sixers (15-22)

The Philadelphia 76ers are set to host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This game features two teams heading in different directions, with the Thunder atop the Western Conference and the 76ers fighting for a play-in spot in the Eastern Conference.

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Philadelphia 76ers Preview:

The 76ers (15-22) are looking to bounce back after a 104-99 loss to the Orlando Magic. They are currently two games out of the final play-in spot in the East. The Sixers’ offense has been inconsistent, averaging 107.4 points per game, which is the fifth-worst in the league. However, their defense has been solid, allowing only 110.6 points per game.

Key players for the Sixers include:

  • Tyrese Maxey: Averaging 25.8 points per game (7th in the NBA), Maxey is the team’s primary scoring option.
  • Kelly Oubre Jr.: Contributing 13.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.
  • Paul George: Adding 16.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game.

Oklahoma City Thunder Preview:

The Thunder (32-6) continue their impressive season, holding the best record in the Western Conference. They enter this matchup with the No. 1 ranked defense in the league, allowing only 103.4 points per game, and the 7th ranked offense, scoring 116.1 points per game. OKC’s balanced attack and depth have made them a force to be reckoned with.

Key players for the Thunder include:

  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The NBA’s leading scorer, averaging 31.4 points per game.
  • Jalen Williams: Providing 20.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.
  • Isaiah Hartenstein: Recording a double-double average with 12.0 points and 12.0 rebounds per game.

Key Matchup:

The key matchup to watch will be between Tyrese Maxey and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Both players are top scorers for their teams and can take over the game at any time. The battle in the paint will also be crucial, with Isaiah Hartenstein looking to control the boards against the Sixers’ frontcourt.

Historical Context:

The Thunder have been strong on the road, while the Sixers have had their struggles at home. This game will test Philadelphia’s ability to compete with one of the league’s top teams as they seek consistency and improvement in their performance.

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