The Western Conference finals continues tonight as the Thunder host the Spurs for Game 5. The series is currently tied at 2-2.
The two games the Spurs have won saw a standout performance from Victor Wembanyama in Game 1, including a game-tying 3-pointer in the final minute of overtime. The Thunder also had their worst scoring game in four years in Game 4.
Wembanyama’s Dominance vs. Thunder’s Depth
The Spurs are significantly outscoring the Thunder when Wembanyama is on the court. However, the Thunder have a strong scoring advantage when he is off the court.
For the Thunder, a key challenge is maintaining a high standard of play while dealing with the absences of Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander needs to better handle Stephon Castle’s defensive pressure. There is also a need for Chet Holmgren to be more involved on offence, and for other ball handlers and shooters to improve their performance.
McCain Enters Starting Lineup
Jared McCain is stepping into the starting lineup. This is only the 12th time in his NBA career he has started. With Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell unavailable, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault is giving McCain a significant opportunity.
McCain scored 24 points in Game 3, but only four points on 1-of-10 shooting in Game 4.
Holmgren vs. Wembanyama
The contest between Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama is a key storyline. Holmgren needs to play with more power inside, especially given Wembanyama’s size.
- Victor Wembanyama is owning Chet Holmgren.
- Holmgren shouldn’t be shamed for being outplayed by Wembanyama.
- No glory gets lost
Coach of the Year
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson had a phenomenal season, lifting the Spurs to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. However, he did not win the 2025-26 NBA Coach of the Year award. Boston’s Joe Mazzulla won the award after his team earned the Eastern Conference’s No. 2 seed.
Johnson has enjoyed a stronger postseason than both Mazzulla and Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. They combined to win a single playoff series. With the Western Conference finals tied 2-2 between the Spurs and the Thunder, Johnson has exceeded all expectations in his first year.
Game 1 of the series is essentially a best-of-3 situation.