I am approaching this game purely from a psychological angle.
First, Westbrook rested against the Jazz on Sunday and hasn't played in 6 days. Huge. He will be ready to handle and also push Parker, which is crucial. Parker is the engine that makes the Spurs go. Though he is seemingly tireless, he was worn out against Westbrook in the Western Finals 2 years ago. Not saying that will happen tonight, but he will have to gauge his energy and play accordingly. Westbrook will be in full on beast mode, imo.
Second, the Thunder need to make a statement tonight against a rival and potential West Finals opponent. The Spurs simply do not. This is not their MO. They know they are good and don't need approval or a win tonight. The Thunder, imo, need it badly after losing Harden and making an ignominious exit last year against Memphis(without Westbrook of course).
Third, I also like that the Spurs have played a relatively easy road schedule, except for Portland(a Kobe-less LAL, an early season roadie against a disheveled Nuggets squad, the putrid Knicks, young Sixers and horrible Jazz). This will be their toughest matchup tonight.
4th, the OKC fans. One of the best in the NBA. Huge homecourt advantage against a bitter rival on Thanksgiving eve. No one has to go to work tomorrow. Expect a raucous, loud crowd.
OKC -2.5. Very large play for me. GL with whatever you play.
I am approaching this game purely from a psychological angle.
First, Westbrook rested against the Jazz on Sunday and hasn't played in 6 days. Huge. He will be ready to handle and also push Parker, which is crucial. Parker is the engine that makes the Spurs go. Though he is seemingly tireless, he was worn out against Westbrook in the Western Finals 2 years ago. Not saying that will happen tonight, but he will have to gauge his energy and play accordingly. Westbrook will be in full on beast mode, imo.
Second, the Thunder need to make a statement tonight against a rival and potential West Finals opponent. The Spurs simply do not. This is not their MO. They know they are good and don't need approval or a win tonight. The Thunder, imo, need it badly after losing Harden and making an ignominious exit last year against Memphis(without Westbrook of course).
Third, I also like that the Spurs have played a relatively easy road schedule, except for Portland(a Kobe-less LAL, an early season roadie against a disheveled Nuggets squad, the putrid Knicks, young Sixers and horrible Jazz). This will be their toughest matchup tonight.
4th, the OKC fans. One of the best in the NBA. Huge homecourt advantage against a bitter rival on Thanksgiving eve. No one has to go to work tomorrow. Expect a raucous, loud crowd.
OKC -2.5. Very large play for me. GL with whatever you play.
Good analysis, need more of that around here, I was putting in my OKC 2nd half bet when it was taken off the board, good the rest of you guys got to cash.
Good analysis, need more of that around here, I was putting in my OKC 2nd half bet when it was taken off the board, good the rest of you guys got to cash.
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