Thunder vs Lakers preview: MIA defense will need to reemerge for OKC to snap losing streak

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Los Angeles Lakers

Tip-off: 1PM CST

Location: Chesapeake Arena, OKC, Oklahoma

Broadcast: ABC

The Thunder tackle the Lakers today on Super Bowl Sunday. OKC is looking to snap a 3 game losing streak they endured in the first full week following Andre Roberson’s season-ending injury. After a good start against the 76ers, the team wilted defensively, dropping games to the Wizards, Nuggets, and Pelicans. Signs of weariness showed up midway through their loss to New Orleans, as the team struggled to find the energy or precision needed against another playoff hopeful.

The Lakers are a different animal, however. The Thunder have had little difficulty in their first two games against LA, winning by an average of 31 points. However, as we’ve seen in the past, if the OKC defense does not focus itself by properly guarding the perimeter, opponents can find themselves with open 3-pointers all game long. And all it takes is for one guy to get hot (See: E’Twaun Moore) to put the talented Thunder behind the 8-ball.

Look for the Thunder to establish the middle early, as Lakers center Brook Lopez cannot contend with Steven Adams’ world destroying talents. Also look for more Russell Westbrook post-ups, which had been opening up shooting lanes for Paul George and Carmelo Anthony. Most importantly, let’s just hope OKC can get the win, as the enemy in Oakland is sitting on the horizon.