Thunder vs Jazz game 6 preview: one more game to earn a game

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Utah Jazz

Series: Utah leads 3 games to 2

Time: 9:30 CST

Location: Vivint Smart Home Arena, Utah

Broadcast: ESPN, FSOK

***

The Thunder endured what looked to be the end of their season, and in the worst way possible — a disastrous showing at home, surrendering a 25 point lead to the Jazz early in the 2nd half and precious little to hang their hopes on. Were you surprised that the reigning NBA MVP woke up in the nick of time to save OKC’s season at least for one more outing?

Given the way this season is gone, I guess not, eh?

From the very beginning, this Thunder team has maintained that their success trajectory is solely dependent on them. And I suppose it is, which is what makes the season overall so maddening, because so much of their struggles have been self-inflicted, from the top on down.

What to expect from tonight? In the words of Boyd Crowder, “Bartender, let’s do this one more time.”

Because I have absolutely no idea. Utah could do what they have done 60% of this series, which is outclass OKC on both ends of the court and make themselves look like the only team in this series that belongs in the playoffs. Or OKC could do what OKC does, and flip the script on the whole thing through sheer chaotic and aggressive basketball ballet.

Do I expect the Jazz to win? Yes, I do. But every time I’ve written that sentiment this season, I have to come back the next day and wonder who exactly this team is.

“Come, gentlemen, I hope we shall drink down all unkindness.” - Billy Shakespeare