The Golden State Warriors are looking for a foundation for future success. Their next opponent will give them the perfect example of what it takes. While the Warriors are once again looking for the answer near the bottom of the Western conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder are cruising alone atop the standings thanks to some impressive play both at home and on the road. Franchise cornerstones Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook have been complimented by some solid veteran pieces, establishing the Thunder as legitimate championship contenders this sports betting season.
Oklahoma City Thunder @ Golden State Warriors
Friday January 27, 2012 – 10:30 PM ET
Oracle Arena, Oakland, California
NBA Sports Bet Line: Oklahoma City – 6.5
While the Thunder have clinched some blowout wins over the past 10 days, the Warriors continue to get burned by close losses, where a couple of specific plays can be keyed in on as having a huge impact on the final outcome. New coach Mark Jackson hasn’t lost faith, but he, like his players, is learning that winning in this league won’t come easy.
Betting On Oklahoma City Golden State Preview: Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City was considered powerful enough with the tandem of Durant and Westbrook each averaging over 20 points per game, but the addition of James Harden to that group has taken them to another level. Harden is averaging 16.7 points per game, with 4.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists, and he was a plus-32 against the Detroit Pistons while scoring 24 in a 99-79 win over the Detroit Pistons on Monday. The Thunder is playing good basketball on both ends of the floor right now, and have developed a knack for the spectacular.
Betting On Oklahoma City Golden State Preview: Golden State
Another couple of close losses to the Indiana Pacers and Memphis Grizzlies pushed the Warriors to 5-11 on the season, and it may take some time before they have what it takes to come out on top when it comes down to the wire. While an offense led by Monta Ellis’ 23.1 points per game ranks 13th in the NBA, the defense has struggled to get the job done when it counts the most, and it has turned potential wins in to losses. Golden State will need to work hard as a team and learn to bear down in order to play better when the game is on the line, and it will take time.
Betting On Oklahoma City Golden State Preview: Outlook & Pick
Regardless of their status as road sportsbook favorites, the Thunder have gotten the job done away from home this year, and should have no problem making the trip to Oakland and picking up another W against a Warriors’ team still searching for consistency. Golden State has some nice young pieces that in the right situation could excel, but finding the veteran players to surround them with and the system to get the most out of them at both ends of the floor will take time, just like it did in Oklahoma City.
Betting On Oklahoma City Golden State Pick: Oklahoma City