Golden State Warriors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder – The Warriors (9-11) and Thunder (13-6) face off on Friday night in a Western Conference showdown. Both teams feature top players putting up impressive numbers like Stephen Curry and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, though OKC has played better lately, going 3-2 over their last five. With top Canadian sportsbooks offering competitive odds, there’s plenty of betting value to assess.
Golden State Warriors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Date & Time: Friday, December 8, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET
Location: Paycom Center
TV: BSOK
Golden State Warriors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Warriors | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Thunder | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Golden State Warriors Analysis
The Warriors possess one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the league in Stephen Curry. Despite his slight frame, Curry leverages craftiness and limitless shooting range to pile up points. He leads the team with 29.1 points per game on 45% FG and 38% from three. His pick and roll chemistry with Draymond Green fuels open perimeter looks. Curry has inside-out scoring ability as well, excelling at floaters and quick layups at the rim. Additionally, with Klay Thompson heating up this season after injuries, the Warriors feature multiple high-volume scorers in the backcourt who can take over games.
However, the Warriors do have weaknesses, especially defensively inside. They allow 49.3 points in the paint per game, ranked 20th. Missing a true rim protector, opponents attack the basket frequently, evidenced by GS giving up the 6th most free throw attempts (27.4). Offensively, turnovers have also plagued the team, committing the 6th most per game (15.5). Curry himself contributes nearly 4 per contest. Finding more consistency moving the ball and limiting miscues will be key.
Oklahoma City Thunder Analysis
Emerging star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander guides the Thunder offense with his versatile scoring arsenal. SGA is netting a career-high 29.9 points per game on over 50% shooting from the field. Using hesitations, step backs, and pristine footwork, he can create space to unleash from all levels. SGA also sets up teammates well when drawing extra defensive attention, dishing 6.3 assists. His chemistry in the two-man pick and roll game with Aleksej Pokusevski yields clean looks near the rim for the seven-footer.
As a team, the Thunder excel on the offensive glass, ranking 1st in the NBA with 12.6 offensive rebounds per contest. Players like Josh Giddey, Jalen Williams and Pokusevski attack the boards fiercely. This gives the team extra scoring chances to exploit. Defensively, OKC forces teams into tough perimeter shots, allowing the fewest opponent 3-point attempts in the league (28.8). The team also gives maximum effort contesting shots and diving for loose balls. Opponents must work diligently to score against this feisty, physical defense.
Golden State Warriors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Against the Spread
The Warriors have shown a mixed trend against the spread, going 3-2 in their last five games. However, their performance in road games against the spread (7-3) indicates a stronger resilience when playing away from home. The totals going over in 3 of their last 5 games and in 6 of their last 10 home games suggest a tendency towards high-scoring encounters.
On the other hand, the Thunder have been more consistent, going 3-1 against the spread in their last five and an impressive 7-1 in their road games against the spread. The trend of the total going over in 3 of their last 5 games and 5 of their last 10 at home further indicates their inclination towards high-scoring games.
Golden State Warriors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Oklahoma City Thunder. Their consistent performance and efficient offense give them the edge in this matchup.
Spread: Oklahoma City Thunder to cover. Given their impressive record against the spread, especially in road games, the Thunder are poised to outperform the Warriors.
Total: Over. Both teams have shown a tendency for high-scoring games, making an over bet appealing.
Predicted Score: Oklahoma City Thunder 118, Golden State Warriors 112
In conclusion, while the Thunder appear to be the safer pick for the moneyline, the Warriors’ ability to cover the spread makes them a tempting choice in that category. As for the total, the offensive capabilities of both teams suggest a high-scoring game. For those looking for NBA free picks today, this game offers an exciting opportunity, with the potential for both teams to exceed expectations and provide a thrilling encounter.
