OKC vs SAS pre-series discussion

I’ll preface by saying SA will beat TWolves, if I’m wrong then I’m wrong.

Hoping for some good discussion, we can do all the smack talk once the games start in game threads.

This will be an interesting matchup. Spurs got the best of Thunder in reg season but there’s a lot of banter about who was full strength and who was trying hard and who was sizing up opponent for a - at the time - future playoff matchup potential. They played 5 times so both trams got a lot of film thats for sure.

But all that can be thrown out the window, series will start 0-0.

As for OKC, if the series starts next Wed they will have only played 8 games in 40 days. I think these layoffs showed some rust during the Lakers series, I really don’t like all these gaps they have.

Spurs played last night and should play Thu night however that game is Fri. NBA adds too many days off when you factor the play-in games as well. It really does mess with staying in game shape and rhythm. But thats what you have, so be it.

Before season I had Spurs as contenders next year, but they’ve progressed pretty quickly and are contending this year. Most focus is on Wemby but they’ve built a great roster. I’m looking forward to the series and think it goes 7 games.

Key question for OKC is if JDub can play, as that makes a big difference in how we approach defense and matchups. He’s only played 35 games all season so will be rusty even if back. Most pundits say he will be healthy and play.

Two big changes this year are 2nd year player Ajay Mitchell. He was injured last year in the few months leading up to playoffs so wasn’t part of last year’s playoff rotations, thats a big add. And McCain added from Philly in spring was great vs Suns and Lakers so we’ll see what role he plays. The main thing is how we decide to defend Wemby and SA has a great starting roster so you have to be wise and decide who you let get more attempts. Pick your poison basically, and slow them enough

I think this series will be a great coaching chess match. Chet has really matured this year and playing great. I always worry he looks like an injury waiting to happen but he was an ironman this season and the playing time has really helped him grow as a player. He was 37 of 38 in rim baskets.

OKC has a deep bench and it will be needed. That is usually how these close matchups go.

Anyways, hoping for some good talk without smack. Will be plenty of time for that especially since series will likely span 2.5 weeks.