With the Knicks resting after clinching their first Finals appearance since 1999, the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare for Game 6 versus the San Antonio Spurs. OKC grabbed a 3‑2 lead in the Western Conference finals with a Game 5 win that relied on bench players to replace Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell. The Thunder have won seven Game 5s after a 2‑2 tie and have closed out each series.

To clinch the series, Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander must repeat the 35‑point, 11‑of‑22 shooting display that dismantled the Lakers in the second round. He has averaged 26.2 points on 38.8% shooting this round as the Spurs rotate multiple defenders. Veteran Alex Caruso, who has exploded to 17.0 points per game, offers another scoring spark from the bench. His clutch play will also test the Spurs' defensive schemes.

San Antonio’s only realistic path is Victor Wembanyama returning to his dominant form. He logged just 15 attempts in Game 5; coach Mitch Johnson insists he must fire more than 20 points and improve his paint presence, as OKC shot 49% with him on the floor. Replicating his 41‑point, 24‑rebound effort from Game 1 could force a decisive Game 7.