Toronto Raptors vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 21/03/2024, 14:31  by Joseph King | Modified on 22/03/2024 at 03:47 in NBA Predictions

The Toronto Raptors will attempt to put an end to their lengthy losing streak when they host the red-hot OKC Thunder on Friday. It’s been a difficult season for 2019 champions as the Raptors sit 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 23-46 record. Their current eight-game losing streak has buried them in the standings as they would now need to overcome a 7.5 game deficit if they are to catch the 10th-placed Hawks for a spot in the play-in tournament. There hasn’t been much the Raptors can do as they are completely decimated by injuries at the moment. Star player Scottie Barnes has missed the last nine straight games and will likely miss the rest of the 2023/24 campaign after undergoing surgery on his left hand. They’ll also be without RJ Barrett, Jakob Poeltl and Chris Boucher, while Immanuel Quickley and Jontay Porter remain day-to-day. Their last appearance resulted in a heavy 123-89 home loss to the Kings, marking their lowest points total of the entire season.

The Thunder have been one of the NBA’s biggest surprises this season. The young talent of this team is well ahead of schedule as they challenge for the top spot in the Western Conference. Led by a legitimate MVP candidate in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder currently find themselves tied at the top of the West with defending champions Denver and with a 1.5 game lead over a similarly surprising team in the Minnesota Timberwolves. They’re coming off a 119-107 home victory over the Utah Jazz which was the team’s third win in a row and their sixth in the last seven games overall. The Thunder have been on a good run on the road with five wins in their last seven trips and a 20-13 road record on the season.