It’s a clash between a Western Conference powerhouse and an Eastern Conference team aiming to break into contention in Tuesday’s OKC Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers matchup.
Though both teams will be missing their star big men — Chet Holmgren for the Thunder and Joel Embiid for the 76ers — this game still boasts star power, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Paul George headlining the matchup. Interestingly, the two were traded for each other back in 2019.
Here’s a detailed look at the OKC Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers game, tipping off at 7 p.m. ET at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.
Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.
OKC Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers Prediction, Preview and Odds
Moneyline: Thunder (-542) vs 76ers (+400)
Spread: Thunder -10.5 (-110) vs 76ers +10.5 (-110)
Total (O/U): Thunder o218.5 (-110) vs 76ers u218.5 (-110)
Editor's note: The odds could change close to the game. The odds listed were as per available information at the time of writing.
OKC Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers preview
The Thunder are red-hot, having won 17 of their last 18 games. Their only loss in that stretch came against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the top team in the Eastern Conference.
During their winning streak, OKC toppled contenders like the Orlando Magic, Indiana Pacers, Boston Celtics and twice beat the New York Knicks — teams the 76ers aspire to compete with had they not been hampered by injuries.
OKC’s success has been remarkable considering their own injury struggles. They have yet to play with a fully healthy roster this season.
Chet Holmgren has appeared in just 10 games, Alex Caruso in 20 and Isaiah Hartenstein missed the first 15 games entirely. Still, the Thunder lead the league in both defensive rating and net rating, thanks to their lineup versatility and depth.
The 76ers, meanwhile, have been plagued by inconsistency. They sit 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 15-22 record, just two games out of the final play-in spot. However, they’ve lost momentum, dropping their last two games and struggling at home with a poor 6-11 record.
Injuries have played a significant role, as Joel Embiid has only featured in 13 games this season. Meanwhile, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey have also missed time, and promising rookie Jared McCain suffered a season-ending torn left meniscus.
Over their last 10 games, the 76ers rank in the bottom 10 in defensive rating. Their offense, however, remains respectable, ranked 13th and previously among the league’s elite.
OKC Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers predicted starting lineups
For OKC, Chet Holmgren (hip), Ajay Mitchell (toe) and Nikola Topic (ACL) are all out. Ousmane Dieng, Dillon Jones and Adam Flagler are out as they are assigned to the G League. Alex Caruso is not listed on the injury report, signaling his return.
For the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid (foot), Andre Drummond (toe), Kyle Lowry (hip), KJ Martin (foot) and Jared McCain (knee) are all out. Caleb Martin is questionable due to a groin injury.
Thunder
G - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | G - Aaron Wiggins | F - Jalen Williams | F - Lu Dort | C - Isaiah Hartenstein
76ers
G - Tyrese Maxey | G - Eric Gordon | F - Paul George | F - Kelly Oubre Jr. | C - Guerschon Yabusele
Editor's note: These are the predicted lineups and could change based on the availability of players.
OKC Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers betting props
- Jalen Williams scoring over 19.5 points is -113 on Fanduel. Expect him to clear this.
- Kelly Oubre Jr. scoring over 13.5 points is -125 on Fanduel. The Thunder’s tendency to leave wings open makes this a solid pick
OKC Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers prediction
This matchup could have been a marquee event if both teams were at full strength. Nevertheless, it promises excitement.
Expect the Thunder to assert their dominance and exploit the 76ers’ defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in the interior. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should shine once again, and we predict a Thunder victory covering the spread, with SGA delivering another 30-point performance.
OKC Thunder Fan? Check out the latest OKC Thunder depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.