The Western Conference Finals series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs has lived up to its billing. The series is currently tied, 2-2.
According to Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, each game is a fresh start. He stated that nothing from Game 4 will carry over into Game 5 and that both teams have the same opportunity to win.
Wembanyama’s Impact on the Series
Victor Wembanyama delivered a standout performance in the series opener. His production dipped in Games 2 and 3, but he bounced back with 33 points in Game 4, along with eight rebounds, five assists, three blocks and two steals.
While asking him to replicate his Game 1 performance might be too much, a similar performance to Game 4 would give the Spurs a good chance to win, though not a guarantee.
The Thunder had some success slowing Wembanyama down in Games 2 and 3. Their focus will be on limiting his touches near the rim.
Holmgren’s Offensive Efficiency
This series presents challenges for Holmgren on both ends of the court. Defensively, he faces the task of guarding Wembanyama or Luke Kornet, or chasing smaller players on the perimeter. Offensively, he has to deal with Wembanyama’s defense.
Holmgren’s shooting percentages reflect the Thunder’s success. He is shooting 33.3% in the Thunder’s two losses in the conference finals, and 58.8% in their two victories. Efficient offense from him will benefit the team.
Daigneault pointed to the team’s overall offensive struggles as a factor in Holmgren’s Game 4 performance. He noted that the offensive approach didn’t benefit anyone.
Game 5: A Clean Slate
The series has seen momentum shifts. Just when it seems one team has the advantage, the other responds.
Daigneault said, “There’s a reason we talk about getting to zero every game. We played great the other night. We went and earned those two wins and none of that carried over and nothing from (Game 4) will carry over in Game 5. That’s a blank slate. We have the same exact opportunity that they do to go get that game.”
- The Spurs defeated the Thunder, 103-82 in Game 4 of the WCF.
- The series is now tied, 2-2.
- Wembanyama had 33 points in Game 4.
Game 5 will determine who takes a 3-2 series lead and the opportunity to close out the series in Game 6.