Heading into Monday’s game against the Detroit Pistons, the Oklahoma City Thunder lead the league with 59 wins.
As a result, they lead the Western Conference for the No. 1 seed by two games and a half games over the San Antonio Spurs.
However, with seven games remaining, their top spot isn’t secure yet.
That said, Oklahoma City is still taking a cautious approach as the season ends, resting some of their key contributors so that they’ll be ready for a deep playoff run.
According to NBA insider Clemente Almanza, the Thunder plan to rest both Jalen Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein against the Pistons.
Given the injury concerns of both Williams and Hartenstein, Oklahoma City’s cautious outlook makes sense.
Hartenstein has missed over 30 games this season with various injuries, having suited up in just 43 contests.
Following a hand injury that he played through in last year’s playoffs, Jalen Williams has missed even more games for the Thunder.
The one-time All-Star has suited up in just 30 games for Oklahoma City this season.
As for the Pistons, they’ll be without plenty of top contributors as well, including starters Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, Tobias Harris and Duncan Robinson.
Isaiah Stewart also remains sidelined for Detroit.
Following Monday’s game, the Thunder will host the Lakers Thursday.
The Pistons won’t have much time to rest, traveling to Canada for a game Tuesday against the Raptors on the second night of a back-to-back.
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