With 36 games in the books, the OKC Thunder arguably entered the New Year with their most complete, cohesive win of the season. Sure, there have been other blowouts and important statement wins, but the victory over the Mavericks showcased precisely who this squad could be at their best. (More on this below.)
As the Thunder prepare for their first game of 2019 they travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers for the first of three meetings this season. Notably, this isn’t a typical one of 82 contest.
First of all, these aren’t the same Lakers who OKC has a storied playoff history against.