PREVIEW: The Oklahoma City Thunder arrive in Memphis ranked first in limiting shots attacking the rim on defense while shooting an efficient 86.3% from the free throw line , representing a squad operating at peak efficiency across multiple dimensions. The Thunder have won nine of their last ten games while averaging 123.2 points and shooting 47.5% from the field , showcasing the kind of balanced offensive firepower that has made them nearly unbeatable this season. Oklahoma City dismantled Sacramento on the road with a 132-101 victory, led by Isaiah Hartenstein's 33 points and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 30 , sending them into this matchup with considerable momentum. The Thunder's defensive prowess extends to forcing turnovers at a league-leading rate and allowing quality three-point looks , creating a defensive blueprint that has stymied opponents all season long. Memphis has managed just four wins in their past ten contests while averaging 115.1 points and shooting 44.3% from the field , but they will look to protect home court against the league's elite. The Grizzlies struggle defensively against shots attacking the rim, ranking 25th in that category , which could prove problematic against Oklahoma City's interior-oriented offensive approach. The Grizzlies bounced back from a four-game skid by defeating Dallas 118-104 at home, with Ja Morant distributing 13 assists alongside 21 points , signaling they can compete when clicking on both ends. While Memphis ranks fourth in post-up frequency and seventh in defensive rebounding , they will need pristine execution to contain a Thunder squad that has dominated nearly every opponent they've faced this season.