Thunder Favored to Defeat Shorthanded Nets

Brooklyn looks to overcome long odds against Oklahoma City's stifling defense

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Brooklyn Nets will face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night, with the Thunder heavily favored to win. The Nets are coming off a lopsided loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers and will be without several key players, including Nic Claxton. Meanwhile, the Thunder boast the NBA's best defensive rating and a formidable frontcourt duo of Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. Injuries to the Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell could open up more playing time for Jared McCain, who is expected to play a vital role.

Why it matters

This matchup highlights the contrasting fortunes of the two teams, with the Thunder firmly in playoff position and the Nets struggling to maintain competitiveness this season. The outcome could have implications for the Nets' playoff hopes and the Thunder's positioning in the Western Conference standings.

The details

The Nets trail much of the league in key statistical categories, while the Thunder's stifling defense is expected to be a significant advantage. The absence of Claxton due to a right ankle sprain has created challenges for the Nets against robust frontcourts. The Thunder's double-big lineup featuring Holmgren and Hartenstein could pose problems for the shorthanded Nets.

  • The game is scheduled for Friday, February 20, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET.
  • The Nets last played on Thursday, February 19, 2026, losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The players

Michael Porter Jr.

A key player for the Nets, averaging 25 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, but his output dropped to 14 points in the recent loss to the Cavaliers.

Chet Holmgren

Part of the Thunder's formidable frontcourt duo, along with Isaiah Hartenstein, and is expected to have a significant impact on the game.

Jared McCain

With the absence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell, McCain is expected to play a vital role in activating the Thunder's powerful frontcourt.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The outcome of this game could have implications for the Nets' playoff hopes and the Thunder's positioning in the Western Conference standings.

The takeaway

This matchup highlights the contrasting fortunes of the two teams, with the Thunder firmly in playoff position and the Nets struggling to maintain competitiveness this season. The Thunder's stifling defense and formidable frontcourt are expected to pose significant challenges for the shorthanded Nets.