"Number that inspires hope: 9.9 Oklahoma City is allowing 9.9 fewer points per 100 possessions than the league average this season, according to Basketball Reference. The previous record, going back to 1973-74 (the first year with recorded defensive ratings), is from the 2003-04 Spurs, at 8.8 points below average."
"Number that inspires concern: 12% Oklahoma City's lopsided schedule has been a discussion point, but it's worth emphasizing just how easy its early slate was: During the Thunder's 24-1 start, only three of their 25 games (12%) came against Detroit, New York or teams in the top six in the West. But 21 of their last 57 games (37%) are scheduled against those top-tier teams."
The Christmas slate featured almost all of the league's top teams, with many likely contenders appearing on national television. Oklahoma City leads the league defensively, allowing 9.9 fewer points per 100 possessions than average, the best mark since defensive ratings began. The Thunder's 24-1 start included only three games (12%) against top-tier opponents, while 21 of their final 57 games (37%) are scheduled against top-six West teams. Recent losses to the Spurs, including on Christmas, have intensified scrutiny about how the team will perform against elite competition over the full season.
Read at ESPN.com
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