The Oklahoma City Thunder will host the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night, looking to build on their recent momentum as they aim for a fifth consecutive victory. The Thunder are riding high from a four-game winning streak, showcasing their solid performance throughout the season thus far.
In their upcoming matchup, the Thunder will have star point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander back in action, who is off the injury report after missing the previous game due to rest. Gilgeous-Alexander has been a standout player this season and is widely regarded as a frontrunner for the MVP award. His return will bolster the Thunder's chances against a struggling Hornets team.
The Hornets, having recently defeated the New York Knicks on Thursday, March 20, 2025, will enter the game with an effort to capitalize on their brief success. However, they are facing a tougher challenge as they take on the Thunder, who have been formidable on their home court.
Another key player returning for the Thunder is center Isaiah Hartenstein, who missed the last game due to injury but is set to play on Friday as well. On the flip side, the Thunder will be without Jalen Williams and Lu Dort, both sidelined due to hip injuries. Williams has missed the last four games after sustaining his injury against the Denver Nuggets on March 9, while Dort is missing his third consecutive game for the same reason.
Moreover, Ousmane Dieng will also be ruled out for the game against the Hornets due to a calf strain, adding to the Thunder's injury woes. Cason Wallace is listed as questionable after sustaining a shoulder strain in a prior match, leaving the Thunder's lineup potentially vulnerable for the night.
Despite the absence of key players, the Thunder's depth has been a significant factor in their success this season, allowing them to continue their winning streak even when facing challenges in the lineup. They are expected to maintain their dominant play against the Hornets, aiming to extend their winning record at home.
The game is poised to commence at 8:00 p.m. EST, and fans are looking forward to what promises to be an exciting matchup between two teams trending in different directions. Will the Thunder's momentum carry them to another win, or can the Hornets turn their fortune around?
