Experts Split Thunder-Spurs Picks at 2-2 as OKC Faces 2 Key Injuries
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · May 26
Experts Split Thunder-Spurs Picks at 2-2 as OKC Faces 2 Key Injuries
11 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · May 26
A 2-2 Western Conference Finals tie has prompted a fresh round of predictions, with most experts still backing Oklahoma City but several flipping toward San Antonio before Tuesday's Game 5.
Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell injuries have reshaped the series, raising doubts about the Thunder's shot creation after a Game 4 offensive collapse and putting more pressure on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Oklahoma City's case still rests on home-court advantage, its elite defense and the possibility that role players rebound after swinging from a franchise-playoff-record 76 bench points in Game 3 to a dud in Game 4.
San Antonio's argument centers on Victor Wembanyama's rim protection and the Spurs' poise, with one expert projecting they steal Game 5 in OKC and close the series in 6 at home.
The series is now effectively a best-of-three, with the winner advancing to face the Knicks in the NBA Finals while the Thunder remain favored despite the health concerns.
With stars faltering and injuries mounting, can the Thunder solve their on-court crisis before the Spurs eliminate them?
Why do betting markets favor the Thunder when injuries and stats suggest the Spurs have the clear advantage?