The Zach Lowe Show Concern for the Thunder? Plus, Eastern Conference Power Rankings!
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Jan 5, 2026 Fred Katz, an NBA writer for The Athletic, joins to dive into the Thunder's recent struggles and their need for potential roster changes. They discuss why Oklahoma City's offense has dipped and possible trade moves as the deadline approaches. Katz also highlights the surprising resilience of the Phoenix Suns, noting their ability to adapt without Durant. The duo then tackles Eastern Conference power rankings, analyzing teams from the Pacers to the Knicks, revealing insights into each team's strengths and weaknesses.
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Thunder's Regression Is Statistical, Not Fatal
- The Oklahoma City Thunder's recent 6-5 stretch reflects three-point regression and falling offensive fundamentals.
- Even elite teams can hit a rough patch; the Thunder have time and trade-deadline options to address offensive rebounding and spacing.
Regression Explains Shooting Slide
- Fred Katz attributes the Thunder slump largely to three-point regression after an unsustainably hot stretch.
- He notes individual shooters have cooled and offensive rebounding has collapsed without Hartenstein.
Use The Deadline To Solve Clear Gaps
- The Thunder should consider deadline additions or schematic tweaks to crash more aggressively or add an offensive rebounder.
- Use the month before the trade deadline to identify specific targets or strategic shifts rather than panic-selling.