NBA playoffs 2016, Spurs vs. Thunder live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch Game 4 online
The Thunder will look to tie the series in Game 4 at home.
This matchup largely comes down to the star duos either team trots out. When Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant outplay Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge, the Thunder have the upper hand. When the opposite happens, the Spurs get an edge. On Game 3, Westbrook struggled greatly with his shot but decided to keep firing anyway to the tune of 31 field goals. He had more misses (21) than Durant had attempts (18), which was particularly egregious since the former MVP shot 56 percent.
Leonard and Aldridge, meanwhile, both had efficient nights thanks to their ability to get to the line. The two combined for 24 free throw attempts, more than the Thunder had as a team. The only way to slow them down was to foul and they did a good job of making Oklahoma City pay for sending them to the charity stripe by connecting on 18 of their free throws.
Even with the edge the stars gave them, the Spurs needed an extra boost to get the win, which Tony Parker was happy to provide. The 33-year-old point guard finished the night with 19 points, eight rebounds and five assists and made big shots when San Antonio needed them.
Westbrook took responsibility for his excessive shooting after the game, which means the next matchup could go completely different. If the Thunder find more balance to their scoring, like the Spurs did, they have the firepower and the disruptive defense to tie the series at two and put the pressure to win Game 5 at home on San Antonio. If once again their succumb to poor decision-making, the Spurs will likely take advantage and get their second straight win on the road.
The talent level of these opponents is similar. Execution counts and San Antonio has been better at it so far. The Thunder need to change that or their season could be in jeopardy.
How to watch Spurs vs. Thunder Game 4
Place: Chesapeake Energy Arena
Time: 8 p.m. ET
TV: TNT
Streaming: Watch TNT
