Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
The opening game of this NBA Playoffs series unfolded exactly as anticipated. The Oklahoma City Thunder controlled proceedings from start to finish and delivered a textbook defensive performance. The final margin was over 50 points (131:80). Despite this dominant showing, the line for Game 2 has shifted by merely one point (-14.5).
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder played precisely as one would expect from a squad that finished the regular season with the best point differential in NBA history (+12.9). They dismantled the opposition's half-court offence, allowing just 34.4% shooting from the field, forcing 24 turnovers, and conceding only 6 made three-pointers from 34 attempts (17.6%). Even with such a commanding display, the Thunder still have room for improvement. MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a relatively subdued outing by his standards, finishing with 15 points on 4-of-13 shooting.
Memphis Grizzlies
The star player of the Grizzlies fared only marginally better. Ja Morant was given few opportunities for his trademark drives to the rim, as Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren effectively sealed off the paint. Still, Ja Morant managed to reach double digits in scoring with 17 points. Aside from Marvin Bagley III, who also scored in double figures, the rest of the squad faltered. Jaren Jackson Jr. shot just 2-for-13, while Desmond Bane, tasked with guarding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, ended the game with a –51 plus-minus rating.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Memphis Grizzlies Prediction
The Oklahoma City Thunder's overwhelming superiority was never in doubt before Game 1, and Sunday’s outing simply confirmed it on the court. The Thunder are the stronger side — in terms of roster depth, talent level, and belief in their system. Additionally, the Memphis Grizzlies are operating under a newly appointed head coach with limited time to restructure the squad and maximise Ja Morant’s impact. So far, none of these adjustments have borne fruit, and there is little justification for backing an upset. We are backing the favourites.
