The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to host the Toronto Raptors on Friday night, hoping to welcome back two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to the lineup after his recent injury woes.
Thunder’s Recent Performance:
The Thunder have been impressive without Antetokounmpo, going 32-7 since his injury on November 10. They recently ended an eight-game losing streak with a dominant 140-109 win over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 50-point performance. The team has won three straight games by an average of over 31 points per game.
Key Players:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Averaging over 40 points per game in his last seven games.
- Bobby Portis: Averaging 14.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.
- Chet Holmgren: Expected to return after missing nearly three months with a pelvic fracture, averaging 16.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks in 10 games before the injury.
Raptors’ Recent Performance:
The Raptors have struggled recently, losing two straight games after a six-game winning streak. They were handed a 138-107 loss by the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, with Scottie Barnes scoring just 14 points on 14 shots. Toronto will be without Jakob Poeltl (hip) and RJ Barrett (concussion protocol) for Friday’s game.
Trade Updates:
The Thunder added reserve center Daniel Theis from New Orleans but waived him on Thursday. The Raptors acquired forward Brandon Ingram from the Pelicans but he remains sidelined with a sprained ankle. Toronto also traded Davion Mitchell to Miami for P.J. Tucker, a future second-round pick, and cash considerations.
Matchup History:
This will be the second and final meeting between the Thunder and Raptors this season. Oklahoma City won the first game 129-92 in Toronto on December 5, starting an 11-game Raptors losing streak.
