Thunder race for championship with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the league in scoring

In the United States, the Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies in their first playoff game of the season on April 20, 2025. With an impressive record of 68 wins and just 14 losses, the Thunder earned the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference playoffs, showcasing their strong performance throughout the regular season. Coach Mark Daigneault, who was named Coach of the Year, has led the team exceptionally after overcoming significant injuries to key players like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. Gilgeous-Alexander leads the team as a candidate for MVP, having averaged 32.7 points per game this season, establishing himself as a dominant force on offense. The Thunder's success has raised expectations among fans, who are eager for a championship following a season that yielded one of the best records in NBA history. As the team gears up for this matchup, they prepare to maintain their defensive discipline against a Grizzlies squad known for their offensive scoring capacity, ranking second in the league at 121.7 points per game. However, their performance against Oklahoma City has been less than stellar, with Memphis struggling in their previous encounters, losing all four games during the regular season by significant margins — the closest being a 13-point defeat. Key to the Thunder’s strategy will be their defensive capabilities, which rank among the best in the league. Isaiah Hartenstein leads the team in defensive rebounds, emphasizing their ability to prevent second-chance opportunities for opponents. The Thunder, who also excel in making three-point shots, will aim to extend their shooting success into the playoffs. The team’s robust statistical performance in the last ten games showcases their offensive prowess, averaging 125.2 points per game, indicating a high team chemistry and effectiveness on the court. While injuries have contributed to some hurdles, the Thunder remain confident heading into their playoff series. The coach emphasizes learning from past playoff experiences, suggesting that the familiarity with playoff intensity provides an advantage. The Thunder's balanced approach, combining stellar offensive production with dogged defense, positions them as favorites against Memphis. As the series begins, both teams will be looking to set the tone for the remainder of the playoffs, with Oklahoma City hoping to capitalize on their dominant performances throughout the season.