«Тандер» намерены восстановить позиции с возвращением сильных игроков в матче против «Гриззлис»

As the Oklahoma City Thunder is set to face the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday, key player Alex Caruso returns from a nostalgic weekend, rejuvenated from a visit to Texas A&M's College Football Playoff battle. Despite a narrow 112-107 loss against a strong Minnesota squad, Caruso continues to be a vital piece of the Thunder's defensive game. Thunder Coach Mark Daigneault commends Caruso for his relentless energy and consistency on the court, noting his unfaltering contribution regardless of playing time. Oklahoma City encounters its first major challenge of the NBA season, with two losses in the past three games threatening their previously dominant 24-1 run. Guard Isaiah Joe maintains confidence, expressing a team ethos of growth through both wins and setbacks. Both the Thunder and Grizzlies are about to embark on a back-to-back game sequence, with OKC fresh from being stunned at home by Washington. Memphis experienced a stark 130-122 collapse after initially surging to a 20-point lead against Washington. A vital setback for Memphis is the absence of powerhouse Ja Morant, sidelined due to an injury sustained against the Clippers. Grizzlies Coach Tuomas Iisalo laments Memphis' lack of pace and ball movement in their recent match, emphasizing the need for a significant change to succeed against OKC. Notably, the Thunder excel defensively with an NBA-best rating, presenting a daunting obstacle for a Memphis team lagging in offensive efficiency. Injury woes persist for Memphis, as they witnessed Brandon Clarke exit with a calf strain, leaving them to rely on an already thin bench. For the Monday face-off, reinforcements may come in the form of GG Jackson and Jahmai Mashack, who missed Saturday’s game due to their participation in the G-League's Winter Showcase. This impending contest marks the rematch of the season, following a November face-off where the Thunder triumphed 114-100 in Memphis. The Grizzlies must strategize prolifically against OKC's formidable ability to constrict the paint and defend long-range attempts. Monday's match also rekindles memories of last season’s exhilarating first-round playoff clash. With histories intertwined, this matchup promises to be a telling chapter in the narrative of two teams striving to overcome different obstacles and assert their prowess in the league.