Oklahoma City Thunder (27-11) vs. LA Clippers (25-13)
As the NBA season heats up, a marquee matchup awaits when Oklahoma City Thunder meets LA Clippers on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Oklahoma City boasts an impressive 27-11 record while LA has posted a 25-13 record. Expert NBA picks have shown great interest in this crucial playoff positioning contest that will take place at crypto.com Arena and air live on TNT – it promises an entertaining game of high-level basketball!
The Thunder have been an impressive force this season, particularly on offense. Averaging 122.8 points per game with a 50.9% field goal percentage and 39.7% three-point shooting accuracy have made them formidable scorers. Defensively they average 8.2 steals and 6.5 blocks per game to disrupt opponents’ plays while their 41.2 rebound average has helped set the tempo for victory.
Los Angeles Clippers, while trailing behind in terms of win-loss record, demonstrate an effective balance. Scoring an average of 117.7 points per game with 49.3% shooting efficiency and 39.3% three point shooting percentage aren’t far behind Oklahoma City Thunder in terms of offensive prowess; their 3-point shooting percentage also sits close at 39.3%. Defensively, LA Clippers average 8.2 steals and 5.2 blocks per game to keep pace with Oklahoma City’s defensive intensity while outpacing them on 43.4 rebounds per game which reinforces their strength in keeping possession.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. LA Clippers Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander PG vs. Kawhi Leonard SF
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s point guard, has been exceptional this season. Playing all 37 games he averages 31.5 points and 6.4 assists per game – an outstanding dual threat ability; his defensive stats of 2.4 steals per game and 0.8 blocks highlight his all-around impact; yet against an opponent like Clippers his turnover rate could prove troublesome for them.
Kawhi Leonard of the Clippers brings experience and tactical acumen that make his style both effective and distinct from Gilgeous-Alexander’s. Averaging 23.9 points and 6 rebounds per game, Leonard is an efficient scorer/rebounder; his defensive prowess, evidenced by his 1.7 steals/0.9 blocks ratio is essential in stopping Gilgeous-Alexander. Leonard also contributes an advantageous turnover rate (1.6) that could give them an edge in maintaining possession.
Gilgeous-Alexander and Leonard will play an enormous role in determining the game’s outcome, with Gilgeous-Alexander’s aggressive offense testing Leonard’s defensive skills while Leonard showcases all-around ability and experience against young Thunder star Steven Adams. Expect high levels of tactical play from this matchup as both try to outwit each other both offensively and defensively; their performances could very well determine victory or loss for their respective teams.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds have not yet been announced for this game; however, considering both teams’ records and recent performances, odds should closely mirror one another. When making any bet decision it’s essential to consider not only overall team performance but also key player matchups, trends, and potential game strategies when placing one’s bets.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder have been performing impressively over their recent games, winning four out of five matches they’ve participated in while posting an impressive 4-1 mark against the spread – particularly road games where they went 10-6 against it! Their strong defense, with totals often going OVER the total in recent matches suggests there may be weaknesses that the Clippers can exploit on defense.
LA Clippers Betting Trends
The Clippers, like their counterparts in Oklahoma City, also boast a 4-1 record in their last five games and have shown more balance against the spread, particularly during road contests. Their games have also featured totals going both over and under at times indicating their balanced approach both offensively and defensively that could prove critical when facing high-scoring teams such as Oklahoma City Thunder.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. LA Clippers 1/16/24 Betting Picks
Given recent trends and statistics, this game promises to be close. Oklahoma City Thunder are led by Gilgeous-Alexander in terms of offensive strength; however, with Leonard providing all-around skills as an all-star point guard. How effectively the Clippers manage Thunder scoring while exploiting any defensive weaknesses will ultimately decide the outcome.
Best betting websites will likely favor Oklahoma City due to their superior scoring average and recent form. However, due to their balanced play and home court advantage, the Clippers could make an attractive underdog pick. Prop bets on individual player performances such as between Gilgeous-Alexander and Leonard could provide unique betting opportunities.
