The Oklahoma City Thunder (5-6) will host the Chicago Bulls (4-7) at 7 p.m. CT on FS-OK.
Oklahoma City is coming off a blowout loss against the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday. OKC hung around during the first half but the Lakers blew the Thunder away in the third quarter.
Meanwhile, the Bulls have not played since Sunday because their game against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday was postponed. Billy Donovan’s men will be hungry for a win against the Thunder.
The Thunder are hoping to get their first win during this four game home-stand tonight against the Bulls. The Thunder are 0-6 at home to start the season; all of the wins have come on the road.
What to look forward to
Bulls offensive firepower:
Despite having a losing record, the Bulls have an explosive offense. The offense is led by Zach LaVine who seems to have taken a leap. LaVine is averaging 27.7 points per game which ranks third in the NBA.
The Bulls have seven players who average double figures. Chicago as a team averages 116 points per game which ranks fifth in the NBA. Billy has put together a potent offense in the Windy City and keeping up with the Bulls’ scoring pace will be a challenge for Oklahoma City. The Thunder rank near the bottom of the league when it comes to scoring; OKC are averaging 104.1 points per game.
Thunder looking for first home win:
The Thunder are historically known for their great home court advantage. The Chesapeake Energy Arena has been a fortress for the Thunder in recent times. However, with no fans in the stands this year the Thunder have struggled at home.
Oklahoma City is currently 0-6 at home and is the last remaining team in the NBA with no home victories. The Thunder badly need a win to break the cold streak at home.
At home, the Thunder only average 99.4 points per game whereas on the road they average 108 points per game.
With Lauri Markkanen returning tonight for the Bulls, the Thunder will not have an easy task in securing their first home victory of the season.