The Thunder arrive in Portland with a three-game winning streak that has looked like a rolling wave. Oklahoma City beat Washington by 39 points on Nov. 7 after another lopsided win over Memphis. Portland, meanwhile, has lost two straight, but its 6-3 start through Nov. 8 showed that the Trail Blazers can score in a hurry. Tuesday night at 11:00 p.m. EST brings two Western Conference teams with big goals, and it will ask Portland to slow a team that is already 8-2.

The biggest challenge begins with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He averages nearly 30 points, yet his game is not only about speed. Shai changes pace, uses clever footwork, and rises for smooth midrange shots. When defenders crowd him, he finds open teammates. Jrue Holiday could draw a major share of that assignment. Holiday has quick hands and strong instincts, and Portland needs his steady defense to keep Shai from controlling every turn of the game.

Oklahoma City has important missing pieces. Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and Cason Wallace are all out with leg injuries. That takes away a shot-blocking giant, a versatile scorer, and a pesky guard defender. Still, the Thunder have shown their depth. They allow their defense to start fast breaks, collecting 8.1 steals and nearly six blocks per game. Isaiah Hartenstein’s strength near the rim will be especially important with Holmgren sidelined.

That creates the night’s most powerful clash: Hartenstein against Donovan Clingan. Portland’s 7-foot-2 center grabs 10 rebounds per game and blocks shots around the basket. He also finishes efficiently near the hoop, giving the Blazers a tall target when guards drive into the lane. Portland pulls down 45.2 rebounds per game, but the Thunder are even stronger on the glass at 47.3. Extra rebounds can mean extra shots, and that could swing a close game.

Deni Avdija gives Portland a different kind of problem for Oklahoma City. At 6-foot-9, he can bring the ball up the floor, power toward the rim, and pass to teammates. His 22.3 points and 6.3 assists show why he is Portland’s centerpiece. With Ja Morant and Shaedon Sharpe out, Avdija must create even more. Holiday’s sharp outside shooting can help, especially if Portland moves the ball before attacking.

The Blazers score 119.3 points per game, more than the Thunder, but they also turn the ball over far more often. Against an active Oklahoma City defense, careful passes and strong screens will matter. Portland has the home floor and enough creators to make this a lively fight, yet the Thunder’s recent form, rebounding edge, and ability to protect the ball give them the advantage. Prediction: Oklahoma City wins.

Thunder Bring Their Streak to Portland’s Busy Backcourt