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Portland Trail Blazers vs Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Preview
The Portland Trail Blazers host the Oklahoma City Thunder at Moda Center in Sunday NBA action. Oklahoma City seeks revenge for their lone loss of the season, while Portland looks to build confidence at home. Bettors must weigh the Thunder’s elite defense and MVP-level play from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander against the Blazers’ pace and free-throw efficiency.
Line Movement and Odds
- Thunder Spread: -12.5 (-113)
- Trail Blazers Spread: +12.5 (-109)
- Total: 231 (Over -110, Under -110)
Oklahoma City opened as heavy favorites given their 19-1 record. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Oklahoma City Thunder Outlook
The Thunder edged Phoenix 123-119 behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 37 points and Chet Holmgren’s 23. Oklahoma City ranks third in scoring (122.2 PPG), eighth in FG% (48.7), and first in defense (106.3 points allowed). Gilgeous-Alexander has scored 30+ in 17 games this season, and Jalen Williams returned from wrist surgery to add depth. Their balance of elite offense and defense makes them formidable.
Portland Trail Blazers Outlook
Portland fell 115-102 to San Antonio despite Deni Avdija’s 37-point effort. The Blazers rank first in FG attempts and fourth in possessions per game, emphasizing pace. They also rank fourth in free throws made and fifth in attempts, showing their ability to draw fouls. Shaedon Sharpe returned from injury, while Jerami Grant provides veteran scoring. Interim coach Tiago Splitter continues to develop young talent in a rebuilding season.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Thunder’s defense vs Blazers’ pace. Oklahoma City must contain Avdija and control tempo, while Portland needs to maximize possessions and free-throw opportunities. Gilgeous-Alexander’s efficiency and Holmgren’s rim protection are pivotal.
Injuries / Availability
Oklahoma City lists Jalen Williams back from wrist surgery. For full player status, check the Thunder injury report.
Portland welcomed Shaedon Sharpe back from a calf injury. See the Trail Blazers injury report for latest updates.
Environment
Moda Center provides Portland a home edge, where they upset Oklahoma City earlier this season. The Thunder’s dominance and defensive metrics suggest a different outcome this time.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Thunder 124, Trail Blazers 109
- Thunder -12.5 (-113) → Best Bet. Oklahoma City’s defense and Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring streak point to a comfortable cover.
- Over 231 (-110) → Total. Our model projects 233 points, leaning over given both teams’ pace and offensive profiles.
Oklahoma City’s balance should secure the win, while Portland’s pace keeps scoring high. Expect the Thunder to cover with the total trending over.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Gain sharper perspectives on this matchup by checking our Best Handicappers, following the Leaderboard, and reviewing premium plays in Buy Picks.


