The Oklahoma City Thunder face the Portland Trail Blazers at the start of the new year, a matchup that promises to be a highlight of the early 2026 schedule. Reviewing recent performances, the Thunder have shown a decent level of competitiveness in their last ten games, securing a 60% win rate with six wins and four losses. However, they have only covered the spread in 40% of those games. Recently, the Thunder have displayed a potent offensive game, though they've also revealed some inconsistencies in controlling the game's pace and technical aspects. Their ability to score high, as demonstrated in games against teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Philadelphia 76ers, showcases their offensive power. However, they've also experienced defeats, such as the loss to the San Antonio Spurs, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. On the other hand, the Portland Trail Blazers have a similar record over their last ten games, with a five-win, five-loss split. They also face issues of inconsistency, particularly in crucial games. They can defeat strong teams such as the Boston Celtics, but they also have suffered surprising losses against teams considered weaker. The Trail Blazers tend to favour a fast-paced offensive style with a reliance on three-point shooting, making them dependent on player performance. They can struggle against teams with strong perimeter defence and interior presence. Considering both teams' recent form and their past encounters, this game is expected to be a dynamic contest with frequent shifts in momentum. Both teams will likely aim to improve their shooting accuracy and reduce turnovers to gain an advantage. The Thunder may depend on their young players' energy and tactical execution to dominate in transition. The Trail Blazers might seek opportunities in the paint while utilising precise movement to create efficient scoring opportunities. This matchup will test both teams' head coaches' abilities to make in-game adjustments.