As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to host the Portland Trail Blazers at the Paycom Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The upcoming match on January 24th promises to be a thrilling encounter, especially considering the Thunder's recent performance.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 23: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors shoots and scores over Deandre Ayton #2 of the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Chase Center on December 23, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been showcasing a strong game lately. Their last face-off against the Los Angeles Lakers on December 24th ended in a narrow defeat with a score of 120-129. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways for OKC; they dominated in points in the paint with 52 and had an impressive two-point shooting percentage of 61. However, their three-point shooting was less effective at just under 32 percent.

In contrast, when OKC squared off against the LA Clippers on December 22nd, they emerged victorious with an overwhelming score of 134-115. This win was characterized by their exceptional field goal percentage of nearly 59 percent and an even more impressive three-point shooting rate of over 47 percent. The team also excelled in assists with a total of 35 and maintained a solid defense throughout.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 23: Deandre Ayton #2 of the Portland Trail Blazers shoots over Brandin Podziemski #2 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at Chase Center on December 23, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Against the Memphis Grizzlies on December 19th, OKC demonstrated their defensive prowess by blocking ten shots and stealing eleven times which contributed to their win at home (116-97). They capitalized on turnovers scoring an astonishing number of points off them (31) and once again showed strength under the basket with points in paint totaling up to 58.

The upcoming game against Portland is expected to be competitive but based on recent performances; it's clear that OKC has several advantages - particularly their ability to control games through high-percentage shooting from both inside and outside as well as converting defensive plays into offensive opportunities.

On paper, these factors give OKC an edge over Portland for this matchup. Fans should look out for how well OKC can maintain its efficiency from beyond the arc while continuing its dominance inside against a formidable opponent like Portland.

Thunder enthusiasts should mark their calendars for January 24th at Paycom Center where tip-off is scheduled for local time (8:00 PM CST). The game will be broadcasted live on BSOK channel number (675) for home viewers or ROOT Sports NW+ channel number (687-1) if you're cheering from away territory. Don't miss what promises to be another exciting chapter in this NBA season!

NBA - Opinion

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