Washington-wizards vs Oklahoma City Thunder Picks and Predictions January 12th 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Continues MVP Campaign Against Wizards

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s stellar season rolls on as the Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Washington Wizards on Sunday. Fresh off a dominant performance against the New York Knicks, Gilgeous-Alexander has further solidified his status as one of the league’s premier talents and an MVP frontrunner.

Thunder Riding Momentum

The Thunder rebounded emphatically from their first loss in 16 games with a commanding 126-101 victory over the Knicks on Friday. Gilgeous-Alexander spearheaded the effort, tallying 39 points in just 29 minutes on an ultra-efficient 15-of-21 shooting.

The seventh-year guard continues to showcase an MVP-caliber season, averaging 31.5 points, 5.9 assists, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game. He leads the NBA with 22 games of 30 or more points this season.

Coach Mark Daigneault lauded his star’s consistency:
“He can make it look easy sometimes, but it’s not easy. It’s his growth and experience making the game slow down for him.”

Alongside Gilgeous-Alexander, Isaiah Joe chipped in 31 points off the bench against the Knicks, connecting on 8-of-11 shots from beyond the arc. Rookie guard Jalen Williams added 19 points, highlighting Oklahoma City’s balanced offensive attack.

The Thunder are now seeking their sixth straight victory over Washington, one of the league’s rebuilding squads.

Wizards in Turmoil

The Wizards enter Sunday’s game with the NBA’s worst record (6-30) and on a five-game losing streak, including a lopsided 138-105 defeat to the Chicago Bulls on Friday.

Washington’s defensive struggles were evident as the Bulls shot nearly 56 percent from the field and made 46.9 percent of their 3-point attempts.

“We didn’t bring the necessary level of focus,” Wizards coach Brian Keefe admitted after the loss. “That’s on me. We’ve got to be better.”

Jordan Poole returned from a three-game absence to lead the team with 22 points against Chicago. Rookie center Alex Sarr continues to show promise, posting his second double-double in three games with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Malcolm Brogdon, who has missed the last three games with a right foot injury, is questionable for Sunday. In his absence, reserve guard Jared Butler has taken on a larger role, averaging 18.8 points and 5.3 assists over the last four games.

Key Matchups

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Washington’s Defense

Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to dominate on both ends of the court has been critical to Oklahoma City’s success. Against a Wizards defense that allowed 138 points to Chicago, he has the potential to post another high-scoring performance.

Wizards’ Youthful Core

Washington’s rebuild centers around young players like rookie guard Kyshawn George, who is struggling to find his shooting touch but continues to earn his coach’s trust. George is averaging 33.2 percent from the field and 25.3 percent from 3-point range this season.

“The shooting is going to come,” Keefe said. “He’s a good shooter, and that will show over time.”

Predictions for the NBA 6th Man of the Year

Game Outlook

The Thunder, fueled by their offensive depth and Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-caliber play, enter Sunday’s game as heavy favorites. Meanwhile, the Wizards aim to stay competitive and give their young players critical experience against one of the NBA’s most dynamic squads.

Expect Oklahoma City to push the pace and capitalize on Washington’s defensive vulnerabilities as they seek their sixth consecutive win over the Wizards.