PREVIEW: The Oklahoma City Thunder arrive at Los Angeles as one of the league's most dominant defensive forces, ranking first in shots attacking the rim allowed on defense while maintaining a league-leading low turnover rate. Oklahoma City is the best team in the Western Conference allowing just 107.9 points per game while holding opponents to 43.3% shooting. The Lakers counter with efficient rim attacking ranked first in the NBA and a high free throw rate, though their perimeter defense remains average at allowing 42.4% of three-point attempts. Los Angeles makes 49.9% of their shots from the field this season, which is 6.6 percentage points higher than the Thunder have allowed to their opponents. The Thunder's biggest weakness shows up in their offensive rebounding at just 20.9%, ranking 30th, and low frequency of post-up shots also at 30th. Injuries continue to plague Oklahoma City with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and several others unavailable for this matchup. The Lakers face their own injury concerns with Luka Doncic and Deandre Ayton sidelined. Despite these absences, Los Angeles boasts one of the league's most efficient offenses paired with average defensive rebounding, setting up an intriguing clash between two Western Conference contenders adjusting to roster limitations.