Trail Blazers Vs. Thunder Game Thread
In the only previous matchup between these two Northwest Division rivals, OKC prevailed, 106-92 largely in part to a 4th quarter run which blew open a tight game. Looking back, Damian Lillard, Wesley Matthews, JJ Hickson, and LaMarcus Aldridge all had great nights, but it was Nicolas Batum who couldn't get into rhythm. Batum shot just 1-11 from the floor for 3 points, had 2 assists and just 1 rebound in 36 minutes of action while his counterpart Kevin Durant went off for 23 points, 17 rebounds, and 7 assists. This will change Sunday night. This is a new Nicolas Batum who is playing a brilliant all-around game at the moment and not letting his shooting define his entire performance. Obviously there is no stopping Durant; you can only hope to contain him. But Nic's got to make KD work for his. Allowing KD 50% shooting won't do if the Trail Blazers are going to get win No. 10 in a row on the home floor. If Nic can make life tough for Durant on one end and fill the box scores like he's been doing lately, look for the Trail Blazers to get the bigtime W.
So Rip City, what are your keys to victory?
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