Thunder vs Nuggets, pre-season game 4 preview

OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (2-1) vs. Denver Nuggets (2-1)

• Venue: Pepsi Center, Denver, Colorado
• Date: October 10
• Time: 9:00 PM EDT

The Oklahoma City Thunder fly into Denver looking to win their third game of the preseason. A year ago, the Thunder won the regular season series 3-1, the biggest of which netted Russell Westbrook his 43rd triple-double of the season.

OKC is on a two game winning streak after beating the New Orleans Pelicans and Melbourne, but questions remain. Their team is still figuring out how to maximize their potential and find their true identity. Against Melbourne, OKC relied on its defense by holding Melbourne to just 34.6% percent shooting from the field while forcing 17 turnovers.

Preseason games aren’t necessarily about winning, but rather, establishing chemistry.

Denver looks to be a better team from last year by adding a veteran forward, the dynamic Paul Millsap. However, Carmelo Anthony showed that he can guard top power forwards by previously holding Anthony Davis to only 14 points and 7 rebounds.

However, Denver has one of the best frontcourts in the NBA. Center Nikola Jokic is arguably the most gifted passing big man in the game right now. He facilitates, stretches the floor, and can post up with his back to the rim. Steven Adams’ job tonight is to contain Jokic and take away some of his passing plays out of his arsenal.

Injury Report:

Patrick Patterson- Not Likely

Alex Abrines- Expected To Play

What To Watch:

1. Westbrook, Paul George, and Melo needs to run the offense with a nice flow, and the 3-headed monster must continue to distribute the ball to one another rather than wait to take turns to get shots.
2. Watch George and Anthony move without the ball.
3. Will Adams neutralize Jokic?

Prediction: 105-99 Thunder Win