Thunder Aim to Stay Undefeated as Kings Seek Redemption in Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma City Thunder are off to a dream start this NBA season, sitting at a clean 4-0 record, and now they’re back home to take on the Sacramento Kings. The game tips off at 7 p.m. Tuesday night at the Paycom Center, and the energy in OKC is already buzzing. After surviving a tough road win over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday, 101–94, the Thunder are looking to extend their perfect run — even while dealing with a few key injuries.
Chet Holmgren, who’s been a defensive anchor for the team, will be sidelined due to lower back soreness. But on the bright side, Alex Caruso is back in action after clearing concussion protocol, which should give the Thunder’s backcourt some much-needed stability.
The Kings, on the other hand, come into this matchup with something to prove. They’re 1–2 after falling to the Los Angeles Lakers 127–120 on Sunday. Sacramento’s roster includes a handful of former Thunder players — including Russell Westbrook, who’ll be returning to face his old team once again. It’s bound to add a layer of nostalgia and intensity to the game.
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Statistically, the Thunder have been dominant inside the paint. Against Dallas, they poured in 68 points in the lane — their season-high so far. That could spell trouble for Sacramento, who currently rank near the bottom of the league in defending the paint, allowing over 55 points per game. Even without Holmgren, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to continue attacking the rim relentlessly, leading OKC’s offensive charge.
In terms of predictions, analysts are leaning heavily toward Oklahoma City. The Thunder are favored by nearly 10 points at most sportsbooks, and projections suggest a 119–108 win for the defending champs. That said, the Kings still have scoring firepower. Zach LaVine has been on a hot streak, averaging over 30 points in his last three games, and if he stays hot, Sacramento could keep things closer than expected.
The injury reports for both sides are lengthy. For OKC, Holmgren joins Isaiah Joe, Thomas Sorber, Nikola Topić, Jalen Williams, and Kenrich Williams on the sidelines. The Kings will be without Nique Clifford, Keegan Murray, and Daeqwon Plowden.
Even so, the Thunder’s depth and defensive structure — currently ranked number one in the NBA — have kept them rolling through early-season challenges. With Shai leading the way and the home crowd behind them, Oklahoma City will look to make a statement and move to 5–0.
It’s more than just another regular-season game — it’s a test of how far the reigning champions can push their momentum and whether the Kings can find a way to stop one of the league’s most balanced teams. All eyes will be on OKC tonight as the Thunder try to keep the storm going strong.
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