Thunder at Clippers: Pre-game primer

vs.

Oklahoma City Thunder (22-59, 7-33 road) at LA Clippers (19-62, 11-29 home)

TV: FS Oklahoma (Cox 37)
Radio: WWLS The Sports Animal (98.1 FM, 640 AM)
Time: 9:30 CST

Offensive Rating: Thunder: 102.7 (29th), Clippers: 102.5 (30th)
Defensive Rating: Thunder: 109.8 (21st), Clippers: 111.5 (25th)
Pace:Thunder: 93.5 (8th), Clippers: 92.0 (13th)

And we’ve made it to the end. You know what that means? As soon as this one is over, we get to completely think about next year.  That sure beats having to stare at a 22-59 record.

So what’s on the line here tonight? Well, obviously nothing really that important, but OKC ranks 29th in offensive efficiency and the Clips 30th and the two teams are separated by just  two-tenths of a point. So there’s that. Also, the Thunder is one game behind Memphis right now and the Grizzlies play at home against Atlanta. So a Thunder win and a Grizzly loss means we’re looking at a tie for 27th worst record. While that’s definitely a storyline, I say forget the ping-pong balls and go win. If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. I’d rather get another win and avoid a 60-loss season. I know others might feel differently, but I’m not all wrapped up in the lottery. It’s a crapshoot anyway and even if you have the best chance, it’s not really all that great of one.

You know another reason to win? OKC is 0-3 against the Clippers this year. Sixteen percent of the Clips wins have come against the Thunder. That’s embarassing. How about not getting swept by the Clippers? I’m all for that.

Also, can I get just one more awesome Kevin Durant game. I actually would consider trading a 45-point KD explosion for a loss. I love watching him operate in his “I’m taking this effing thing over” mode. He probably will get 27 minutes and 12 points again because that’s the “plan” but still, I like Durant: The Offensive Machine better than Durant: The Season’s Almost Over and I’m Resting. But again, just me.

I’m sure Russell Westbrook wants a little redemption after a disappointing 11 points on 4-13 shooting in his last trip back to his hometown. Eric Gordon was fantastic and KD tried to match him but OKC lost 107-104 against a totally depleted Clipper team. That was maybe on of the worst losses in a season full of bad ones. But LA is relatively healthy and should have their regular roster sans Baron Davis in action tonight. Which means we’ll have a Hair Club For Men All-Star matchup of Chris Kamen and Nenad Krstic. Can’t wait.

Tip at 9:30 CST. Go Offense.