Thunder vs. Celtics: Clash of Titans Could Preview NBA Finals

The defending champion Boston Celtics face one of their toughest tests of the season on Sunday when they travel to Paycom Center to take on the red-hot Oklahoma City Thunder. Led by MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s averaging 31.2 points per game, the Thunder are riding an impressive 15-game regular-season winning streak.

Although their momentum was briefly halted with a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Cup championship game on December 17, that defeat didn’t count toward regular-season standings. The Thunder’s last official loss was on December 1, a close 119-116 defeat to the Houston Rockets.

With a dominant 29-5 record, Oklahoma City sits atop the Western Conference, seven games clear of the second-seeded Rockets. As the season approaches its midpoint, the Thunder appear poised to challenge for their first NBA title.

Celtics Finding Their Groove Despite Jaylen Brown’s Absence

The Celtics, coming off a rollercoaster December, have rediscovered their championship form. After a shaky month that saw them drop six games, Boston ended December with a statement victory—a 54-point demolition of the Toronto Raptors. It marked the second-largest margin of victory in franchise history and a historic low for the Raptors.

However, the celebration was dampened by news of Jaylen Brown’s right shoulder strain. Brown, a pivotal figure for Boston with averages of 24.4 points, six rebounds, and 4.6 assists, hasn’t played since the injury and remains questionable for Sunday’s showdown.

Despite his absence, the Celtics have excelled. They kicked off 2025 with a narrow 118-115 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, fueled by Jayson Tatum’s 33 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. A day later, Boston dismantled the Houston Rockets, who boast the league’s second-best defensive rating, holding them to just 86 points in a commanding 109-86 win.

Thunder Rolling Despite Missing Holmgren

The Thunder’s defensive dominance has been a key to their success. They lead the NBA in defensive rating (102.9) and boast a top-10 offense, scoring 115 points per 100 possessions. Their balance has made them a force, even in the absence of center Chet Holmgren.

Holmgren, the second overall pick in the 2022 draft, has been sidelined since November 10 with a hip fracture. Yet, Oklahoma City has thrived without him, compiling a 21-4 record in all competitions, including their NBA Cup final.

A Finals Preview?

Sunday’s matchup pits two of the league’s best against each other: Boston’s high-powered offense (120.4 offensive rating, second in the league) against Oklahoma City’s stifling defense. With both teams eyeing a championship, this clash could be a preview of what’s to come in June.

While the Celtics look to build on their resurgence, the Thunder aim to continue their remarkable season. Whether or not Brown suits up for Boston, all eyes will be on Gilgeous-Alexander and Tatum as two MVP-caliber stars go head-to-head in what promises to be a thrilling battle.

The stakes may be regular-season, but the intensity will undoubtedly feel like the playoffs.