November 5, 2026 at 6:53 AM UTC
Pregame AnalysisShorthanded Thunder lean on Gilgeous-Alexander in Memphis
Oklahoma City's injury list keeps growing, but its MVP-level star gives it the edge in Memphis.
This page is the pregame analysis. The box score is the main page for the game, and the matchup history collects every meeting between these teams.
The Thunder arrive in Memphis as a champion under real strain. Jalen Williams (fractured fibula, dislocated ankle) and Cason Wallace (torn labrum) could both be done for the season, and Chet Holmgren is out 8 to 10 weeks. Losing two All-NBA-caliber players and an All-Defensive guard has changed what Oklahoma City can be on a given night.
The clearest sign is on defense. The Thunder led the league in points off turnovers for three straight seasons, yet over the past four games they rank third-to-last. Wallace's absence is a big reason. That pressure used to turn defense into easy offense, and without it Oklahoma City has to win more half-court possessions. Memphis can take advantage if it protects the ball and forces the Thunder to score against a set defense.
Still, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the counterweight. His 43 points, with late-game scoring deciding the 117-112 upset at Cleveland, showed he can carry a depleted group against a strong opponent. Alex Caruso's return from an ankle sprain also matters. He was not on the injury report for the second Cleveland game, and his point-of-attack defense and playmaking are what this roster needs most.
The frontcourt remains the concern. Jaylin Williams was listed with low back spasms, which forced Mark Daigneault to shuffle his starters again. The signing of Dalen Terry for the last roster spot shows how thin the depth is, and more reserve minutes are likely.
Oklahoma City's margin for error is slim, and the lineup churn could leave it vulnerable late. But Gilgeous-Alexander's shot-making and Caruso's presence should be enough to scrape out a close road win.