Event of the Day: Oklahoma City Thunder versus Philadelphia 76ers

Our event of the day is the colossal NBA clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Philadelphia 76ers at the Chesapeake Energy Arena. Both sides are in contention to secure playoff berths this term, with OKC sitting third in the West, whilst the 76ers reside fourth in the Eastern standings. The hosts will be desperate to bounce back after falling to defeat last time out against conference rivals the Denver Nuggets, whilst Philadelphia will look to notch their fourth win in their last five outings. OKC’s MVP-worthy duo have lit up the league this term, and continue to post some incredible numbers each week. Only James Harden has averaged more points per game than Paul George this season who is enjoying a phenomenal second year in Oklahoma City colours. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook leads the league in assists and continues to be the go-to guy to make Billy Donovan’s offense tick. However, it is not just at the offensive end of the floor that the deadly duo are making their presence felt as they currently lead the league in steals as well and they will have to show similar defensive hustle if they are to get the better of a well-drilled Philadelphia side tonight. The 76ers can boast a winning road record this term, which is hard to come by in today’s league. In fact, they have won six of their last eight away games and will be full of confidence going into OKC for tonight’s affair.

However, Philadelphia have been dealt a huge blow this week after the injury of Joel Embiid was confirmed meaning he will be sidelined for the OKC clash. This will be disheartening to the Philadelphia faithful who have seen their star man drop 27.3 points per game this term and coach Brett Brown will require an immense team effort from all 12 members of his star-studded squad if they are to overcome tonight’s tricky assignment. These two sides met last month for the first time this year, as the Thunder went into Philadelphia and took home the W after a thrilling contest, winning by 117 points to 115, after impressive displays from Paul George and Russell Westbrook. Tonight should be another thrilling encounter. 

Honourable mentions around the globe go to the Super League clash between the Salford Red Devils and St Helens at the AJ Bell Stadium. Both sides have made impressive starts to the campaign, with the Red Devils winning three of their first four outings whilst St Helens remain one of three unbeaten teams in the league, having won their opening three games. Elsewhere in the NBA, the Denver Nuggets host the Utah Jazz at the Pepsi Center as the hosts look to secure their sixth-straight win. In the darts, night four of the Unibet Premier League will take place at the Westpoint Arena in Exeter tonight where Michael van Gerwen will look to extend his 100% record in the league as he takes to the stage with ‘The Machine’ James Wade. There is also a Copa del Rey semi-final to look forward to tonight as Valencia and Real Betis both look to book their place in May’s final against Barcelona with it all to play for in this second leg after the first finished 2-2. Finally, the round of 16 at the Brasil Open will draw to a close today, as João Sousa takes on Casper Rudd whilst Hugo Dellien faces Argentine Juan Ignacio Londero. 

Whatever you’re watching, enjoy! 

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