The Washington Wizards will look to halt their seven-game losing streak at home when they face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday. This matchup marks the second meeting between the two teams this season. Currently, the Wizards hold a dismal home record of 11-25, while the Thunder boast an impressive 26-8 record in away games.
In this contest, the Wizards are desperate for a victory to end their recent struggles. They have been allowing an average of 123.7 points per game and are being outscored by an average of 11.2 points per game. The Thunder, on the other hand, rank second in the league, conceding only 107.5 points while limiting their opponents to a shooting percentage of 43.4%.
Offensively, the Wizards average 112.5 points per game, which is 5.0 points higher than what the Thunder typically allow. However, Washington also averages 118.5 points against, which is 5.2 points fewer than the 123.7 points they give up. The last time these teams met, on October 31, the Thunder triumphed with a score of 127-108, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who scored 31 points.
Among the standout players for the Wizards is Alex Sarr, who is averaging 16.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and two blocks. Meanwhile, Chet Holmgren is a key contributor for the Thunder, averaging 17.2 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. In terms of three-point shooting, Tre Johnson has been hitting 2.0 shots from beyond the arc over his last ten games, while Jared McCain averages 2.5.
In their last ten games, the Wizards have struggled significantly, going 0-10 and averaging 114.6 points, along with 38.1 rebounds and 23.5 assists per game. Their opponents have managed to score an average of 127.8 points against them. Conversely, the Thunder have remained undefeated in their last ten games, recording a perfect 10-0 streak while averaging 113.3 points, 45.1 rebounds, and 24.1 assists per game, with their opponents averaging 104.4 points.
Injury concerns are also impacting both teams. For the Wizards, players such as Anthony Davis (out, finger) and Cam Whitmore (out for season, shoulder) will not be available. Additionally, Leaky Black is day-to-day due to an ankle issue, and Kyshawn George is out with an elbow injury. The Thunder are also dealing with injuries, including Branden Carlson (day-to-day, back) and Isaiah Hartenstein (day-to-day, calf).
As Saturday”s game approaches, the Wizards are eager to turn their fortunes around and secure a crucial win against a formidable Thunder team.
