PREVIEW: The Cleveland Cavaliers arrive in Oklahoma City ranked third in efficient rim attacks and seventh in both three-point efficiency and transition play, while the Thunder boast the league's best rim defense and rank second in forcing turnovers. The Cavaliers travel to face the reigning champion Thunder, coming off a seven-game winning streak. Oklahoma City will be without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, ruling out its primary offensive engine and secondary creator. Cleveland's newly acquired perimeter defenders like Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis were brought in specifically to disrupt rhythm and create pressure. The Cavaliers have won 12 of their last 13 games overall, with Donovan Mitchell leading the offensive charge and James Harden providing veteran support. The Thunder's weakness on three-point defense, allowing 44.4% of attempts, could provide Cleveland an opportunity to exploit spacing advantages. This matchup will test whether Cleveland's recent defensive improvements are sustainable against a system that values decision-making and spacing. The stage is set for the Cavaliers to prove they belong among playoff contenders, as Oklahoma City's discipline will test their resolve when competition stiffens.