Thunder look to rebound against Trail Blazers in Portland

Despite a recent loss to the Dallas Mavericks, the Oklahoma City Thunder still hold the best record in the NBA as they head to Portland to take on the Trail Blazers on Sunday.

Tip-off is set for 5 p.m. at the Moda Center, where the Thunder aim to bounce back after dropping two games to Dallas in less than a week.

The Trail Blazers, riding a four-game win streak, will present a challenge, but the Thunder have had recent success in this matchup. Oklahoma City has won the last 14 meetings against Portland, including seven straight on the road.

“The in-and-out theme concerning the NBA injury report for the Thunder resumes here in Portland,” said Thunder reporter Steve McGehee. “Isaiah Hartenstein and Isaiah Joe are both available to play on Sunday, along with Cason Wallace, despite his nasal fracture. However, Lou Dort is out with knee soreness.”

The Thunder haven’t looked their sharpest in their last two outings and are eager to get back on track. The return of key players like Hartenstein and Joe could make a difference, but McGehee emphasized the importance of maintaining focus.

“They’re a young, hungry team just like we are, and they want to prove a lot just like we do,” said Thunder center Jaylin Williams. “We can’t go into this game lightly… just go in and get better.”

Portland’s recent form, led by emerging talent, adds intrigue to Sunday’s contest.

However, Oklahoma City remains one of the most formidable teams in the league when healthy, and many believe their potential hinges on staying that way through the postseason.