Overview
- Redick, speaking Sunday, said the Thunder belong with the 1996 Bulls and the 2015–17 Warriors based on consecutive seasons with 10-plus net-rating advantages.
- Net rating, which measures points scored minus points allowed per 100 possessions, favored OKC at +11.1 this season and +13.1 with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the floor, while the Lakers were +1.5.
- Game 1 is Tuesday in Oklahoma City, with coverage describing the Lakers as heavy underdogs as Luka Doncic is still not close to returning and lacks a timetable.
- The Thunder enter as defending champions after 64 wins this season and back-to-back years leading the league in net rating and team defense.
- Key pieces to track include MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander after a 31.1-point season, with Jalen Williams uncertain for the opener due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain sustained April 22.