Oklahoma City Proving It Can Win Without 3-Point Shooting
Oklahoma City ranks No. 1 in the NBA in 3-point shooting percentage. As a team, they shoot at a 39.2% clip. It's no secret this squad has snipers, and outside shooting has been a big part of the Thunder's success.
But finding a way to grind out wins when the 3-point shot isn't falling is just as important. And that's exactly what the Thunder did Saturday night against the Magic.
As a team, Oklahoma City went 8-of-36 from long range, finishing the game at a 22.2% clip. The team started off slow and couldn't hit anything down the stretch, but remained in control the entire game.
Outside shooting has helped the Thunder win games all season long, but not on Saturday night. Oklahoma City had to rely on the strength of its team to take care of business. Defense, transition, and trusting in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander helped the Thunder secure a win against the up-and-coming Magic.
The Thunder's defense game alive after a few disappointing performances, totaling six steals and four blocks. As a team, Oklahoma City forced 15 turnovers and shot 18-of-21 from the free throw line.
Because of the Thunder's elite defense, Orlando shot 39-of-84 from the floor and 20% from the free throw line.
Nine total players scored for the Thunder and the entire starting lineup finished with double digit points. Gilgeous-Alexander brought the win home, pouring in 37 points on 13-of-20 shooting and Orlando simply had no answer.
To advance in the playoffs and compete for an NBA Finals, Oklahoma City will have to shoot well from long range and make 3-pointers. But it's important for good teams to prove they can without outside shooting and gut out gritty games. That's what the Thunder did on Saturday night.
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