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Why JJ Redick puts Thunder alongside Bulls and Warriors dynasties
TL;DR
JJ Redick compares the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Bulls and Warriors dynasties, highlighting the challenges the Lakers face in their upcoming playoff series. The Thunder are seen as strong contenders, especially with Luka Doncic missing the start of the series.
Key points
- JJ Redick compares Thunder to Bulls and Warriors dynasties
- Luka Doncic will miss the start of the playoff series
- Lakers viewed as underdogs against the Thunder
Mentioned in this story
JJ RedickLuka Doncic
Oklahoma City ThunderLos Angeles Lakers
Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images
The Los Angeles Lakers begin a daunting playoff challenge next Tuesday, 5 May, when they face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals. The matchup already looks heavily tilted.
That sense of imbalance has only grown with the confirmation that Luka Doncic is set to miss the start of the series. Without the 27-year-old guard, the Lakers are widely viewed as clear underdogs.
JJ Redick has now added further weight to that perception. The Lakers coach delivered a striking comparison when assessing Oklahoma City, underlining just how difficult the task ahead could be.
JJ Redick places Oklahoma City Thunder among NBA’s all-time great teams
Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images
Redick made it clear he views this Oklahoma City team as historically elite. He pointed to advanced metrics that place them in extremely rare company across multiple seasons.
“We saw a stat in our morning meeting, teams that have had back-to-back, 10 or better net ratings in consecutive seasons. You’re talking about the ‘95-’96 Bulls and ‘96-’97 Bulls and the ‘15-’17 ,” the head coach said on Sunday (via Khobi Price).
Q&A
Why does JJ Redick compare the Thunder to the Bulls and Warriors?
JJ Redick emphasizes the Thunder's strength and potential dominance in the playoffs, likening them to historic NBA dynasties.
What impact does Luka Doncic's absence have on the Lakers vs. Thunder matchup?
Luka Doncic's absence makes the Lakers clear underdogs against the Thunder, intensifying the challenges they face in the series.
When do the Lakers and Thunder play in the playoffs?
The Lakers begin their playoff challenge against the Thunder on May 5, in the Western Conference semifinals.