Portland’s 119.7-Point Attack Puts Thunder Defense on Trial

Wednesday’s game is an early test near the top of the West: Portland is 7-3, Oklahoma City 8-3, and the Thunder rank No. 9 in the power index to Portland’s No. 11. Portland averages 119.7 points per game with a +70 differential, while Oklahoma City allows just 105.9 points per game and owns a +60 differential. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has scored 325 points in 11 games; Portland can answer with Deni Avdija’s 225 points and 65 assists in 10. Inside, Donovan Clingan has 102 rebounds and 20 blocks, while Aday Mara has 70 boards and 20 blocks for the Thunder; Chet Holmgren is listed out. Portland’s ability to generate offense against that defense—and control the paint—could decide a matchup between teams with just three losses apiece.