What to Watch For in OKC Thunder vs. Portland Trail Blazers

The Oklahoma City Thunder face the Portland Trail Blazers on the second night of a back-to-back series. Entering the matchup, Oklahoma City holds a flawless 8–0 record, marking the strongest start in the franchise’s history.

Team Conditions and Coaching Updates

Portland enters the game with a 4–3 overall record and a recent surge of 3–1 in their last four outings. Tiago Splitter will act as the interim head coach while the organization continues its investigation involving current head coach Chauncey Billups, who remains on leave.

Player Availability and Injury Updates

Portland will be without Scoot Henderson, Matisse Thybulle, Blake Wesley, and Damian Lillard.
Shaedon Sharpe is listed as probable due to a calf strain.
Oklahoma City will miss Jalen Williams, Kenrich Williams, and rookie Nikola Topic.
Chet Holmgren and Ajay Mitchell will be monitored after sustaining minor falls in Tuesday’s game.
Lu Dort exited that game early with a shoulder contusion.

The Thunder will not release their official NBA injury report until Wednesday afternoon.

Key Focus for the Contest

With both teams managing injuries and back-to-back fatigue, this matchup will test Oklahoma City’s depth and Portland’s resilience under interim leadership.

Author’s Summary

The Thunder seek to extend their perfect start while Portland navigates roster setbacks and coaching changes in this early-season clash.

Sports Illustrated — 2025-11-05