The Oklahoma City Thunder's recent schedule has been more akin to an NFL team's than an NBA squad's. Since their regular-season finale on April 14, they've only played four games in 21 days, averaging just over a game a week. What's even more astonishing is that they've managed to go over a month without a loss.
The Thunder had a six-day break during the play-in tournament as the first seed. After sweeping the New Orleans Pelicans, they're now enjoying another six-day break before their Round 2 opener against either the LA Clippers or Dallas Mavericks.
But here's the kicker: if the Mavericks and Clippers go to a Game 7, it'll be on Sunday, May 5, giving the winner just one day off between series. This could lead to a scenario where the winner enters Round 2 a bit banged up. Kawhi Leonard has already missed three of five playoff games with a knee injury, and Luka Doncic has been playing heavy minutes with artistic KT tape covering his leg.
The Thunder secured the first seed on the final day of the season with some outside help. Luck often plays a role in deep playoff runs, regardless of the sport.
And luck seems to be on the Thunder's side in more ways than one. The long breaks between games allow them to rest and recharge, crucial for a young team facing physically demanding playoff matchups. Coach Mark Daigneault emphasized the importance of this rest, knowing they're about to face a tough opponent in intense games.
Health is another area where luck has favored the Thunder. They've had clean injury reports through four playoff games, with no serious ailments on the roster. Contrast that with their first-round opponent, who was without their best player, Zion Williamson, for the entire series due to a season-ending hamstring strain suffered during the play-in tournament.
Even when faced with minor injuries, like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tweaking his ankle in Game 4, the Thunder have managed well. Daigneault expects him to be ready for Game 1 of Round 2 after receiving treatment during the break.
Maintaining relative health will be key for the Thunder's playoff aspirations. One bad injury can derail an entire postseason, a fact not lost on anyone in the franchise.
As the Thunder look ahead, a deep playoff run seems entirely possible. Their on-court talent will play a significant role, but luck, as it has in their scheduling, opponent, and injuries thus far, might just be the deciding factor.
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