After suffering a defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night, the Oklahoma City Thunder have now lost two of their last three games after beginning the season 24-1. Three-point shooting proved to be a major factor in the loss, as the Thunder shot 11-for-39 (28%) from beyond the arc in what ended as a five-point loss.
Now, Oklahoma City enters Monday night's game against the Memphis Grizzlies eager to get back in the win column. At 13-15 and ninth in the Western Conference, the Grizzlies provide an easier matchup.
That said, the Thunder are expected to be without two of their biggest contributors. According to Thunder insider Brandon Rahbar, Oklahoma City will be without Chet Holmgren, as he's been ruled out due to illness.
Additionally, Alex Caruso has also been ruled out due to a finger injury.
In the absence of both Holmgren and Caruso, head coach Mark Daigneault is expected to lean on a much smaller lineup, with Isaiah Hartenstein getting the majority of minutes at center.
Expect Cason Wallace, Isaiah Joe and Lugentz Dort to play in elevated roles in the absence of Caruso.
Following Monday's game against Memphis, Oklahoma City will face the San Antonio Spurs in back-to-back games.
One away from home Tuesday and the other at the Paycom Center Christmas Day.
This will give fans another opportunity to see two of the best teams in the Western Conference go head-to-head, with the Spurs defeating the Thunder in their last matchup (NBA Cup semifinals).
More NBA news:
Jalen Brunson was quick to praise Tyler Kolek after his first career double-double
Former NBA Champion reveals he nearly signed with the Lakers
Dylan Harper shares his thoughts after crushing NBA Cup defeat
Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns makes classy gesture after NBA Cup victory