Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
The Toronto Raptors made headlines during the trade deadline, but whether these changes will benefit the Canadian side remains to be seen. They face a tough test against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the current leaders of the Western Conference.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder are in excellent form. They have won four of their last five games, including dominant victories over playoff-level teams such as the Milwaukee Bucks (125:96), Phoenix Suns (140:109), and Sacramento Kings (144:110). Their offence is among the most potent in the league, averaging nearly 118 points per game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been on fire, averaging an incredible 39 points per game over the past 10 outings with a 56.3% shooting percentage. In two of his last five games, he has surpassed the 50-point mark, making him a nightmare for opposing defences.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors are significantly weakened, with several key players sidelined due to injuries. This further exacerbates their biggest issue—defence. They currently rank 25th in defensive efficiency, conceding an average of 116.8 points per game while allowing opponents to attempt over 88 shots per game with a 47% field goal percentage. Their perimeter defence is also suspect, permitting opponents to convert 36.3% of their three-point attempts on an average of 37.7 shots per game.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Toronto Raptors Prediction
The Toronto Raptors’ defensive struggles have been evident all season, and a game against the Western Conference leaders will only highlight their vulnerabilities. The Oklahoma City Thunder should take full advantage of this and comfortably surpass the 125-point mark.
