The Oklahoma City Thunder return to action Thursday night with a major test as the red-hot Los Angeles Lakers visit Paycom Center.
The Lakers (50-26) have won 13 of their last 14 games, including four straight, while the Thunder (60-16) have won three in a row and 15 of their last 16 to maintain the top spot in the Western Conference over San Antonio.
Despite Los Angeles’ surge, the Lakers are still searching for their first win against Oklahoma City this season, entering Thursday 0-2 against the Thunder.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault welcomes the late-season challenge.
“That’s how you figure out where you’re at, and it’s how you get accurate and relevant feedback,” Daigneault said. “Ultimately, that’s how you get better… and a game like this and an opponent like this helps us do that.”
Aaron Wiggins said the Thunder are focused on building rhythm as the playoffs approach.
“I think we feel pretty good,” Wiggins said. “Just trying to find a rhythm on the court, making sure we’re all on the same page… so we can finish this regular season strong and have a good feel going into the playoffs.”
Wiggins also praised Jalen Williams’ return from injury, noting his impact on the team.
“When he’s out there and playing at a high level, he takes our team to another level,” Wiggins said.
With both teams surging, Thursday night’s matchup has the feel of a potential playoff preview as Oklahoma City continues its push toward the No. 1 seed.