Thunder's Home Stretch: Key Games, Injury Recovery

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NBA News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. The Oklahoma City Thunder are heading into a crucial home stretch that could solidify their grip on the top spot in the standings. Fresh off a perfect three-game road trip capped by a close win in New York. They're settled in Oklahoma City for nearly two weeks with just four games, on the slate. This light schedule includes three matchups against serious playoff threats, but the thunder answer as clear favorites each time. The built-in rest days and no travel give them a real edge to stay sharp. For fans and the team, this homestand carries big weight after last season's playoff drama. Needing game seven wins at home in the second round, and the NBA finals taught them the value of home court advantage throughout the postseason. Going unbeaten here would put them at 53 wins and 15 losses before a five-game east road trip starting March 17th. That could open up a game or two on rivals like Detroit with 16 losses in San Antonio with 17. Meanwhile,

1:04Shy Gilgis, Alexander, is easing back from an abdominal strain and these extra recovery days come at the ideal moment. With him wrapping up in possibly more players returning soon, this stretch might help the thunder pull away from the pack once again. The Daily News Now is powered by our sponsor. Your pillow, your podcast, your moment, made for listening in bed, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.