The New York Knicks will visit the red-hot OKC Thunder at the Paycom Center on Friday. The game is scheduled to tipoff at 8 p.m. EST. This will be the two teams’ first contest against each other this season, as they have been dominating their respective conferences.
The Thunder have been the hottest, winning their last 13 games to take the top spot in the Western Conference with a 28-5 record. The team reached the finals of the NBA Cup in December but lost to the Milwaukee Bucks, though it did not count in the regular-season standings.
The Thunder have only lost two games at home, and they have been dominating their Eastern Conference opponents, notching nine wins in as many games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is steadily climbing the NBA MVP ladder, is at the forefront of OKC’s astounding start, as he averages 31.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.1 assists and two steals this season.
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On the other hand, New York is third in the East standings with a 24-10 win-loss record. The Knicks are also on a hot streak, winning their last nine successive games. They are also 13-6 in road matchups this season and currently hold a 7-3 record against Western Conference teams.
Jalen Brunson leads the Knicks in scoring and assists, averaging 25.2 points and 7.7 assists per game. Center Karl Anthony Towns has also been on fire for the Knicks this season, putting up 24.9 points and 13.7 rebounds per contest.
New York Knicks vs OKC Thunder Predicted Starting Lineups and Depth Chart
New York Knicks Predicted Starting Lineups and Depth Chart
The New York Knicks are expected to field their usual starting lineup of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns. They are coached by Tom Thibodeau.
OKC Thunder Predicted Starting Lineups and Depth Chart
The OKC Thunder are predicted to start Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cason Wallace, Lu Dort, Jalen Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein. Last season’s Coach of the Year, Mark Daigneault, will be calling the shots.
New York Knicks vs OKC Thunder injury reports
New York Knicks injury report
The New York Knicks could enter the game without their star point guard Jalen Brunson, who is questionable to play due to a calf injury. Bench player Miles McBride could also be missing the matchup due to a hamstring injury. Mitchell Robinson will also be out due to an ankle injury.
OKC Thunder injury report
The OKC Thunder will also be without a key bench piece against the Knicks. Alex Caruso is questionable to play due to a hip injury. Meanwhile, center Chet Holmgren will continue to recuperate from his hip injury.
Edited by R. Elahi
