Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a decisive victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, securing their fourth consecutive win and matching the Cavaliers' record for the best in the NBA.
OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander exploded for 40 points and eight assists in just three quarters, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a dominant 134-114 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday. This matchup pitted the NBA 's two best teams against each other, with both the Western Conference-leading Thunder and the East-leading Cavaliers boasting identical 34-6 records.
The Thunder's relentless performance marked their fourth consecutive win, while handing the Cavaliers their heaviest defeat of the season, surpassing their previous loss by 15 points. Lu Dort contributed a season-high 22 points and Jalen Williams added 19 for Oklahoma City. On the Cavaliers' side, Darius Garland managed 20 points and nine assists, while Jarrett Allen chipped in with 13 points. Cleveland's star scorer, Donovan Mitchell, was held in check, finishing with a mere eight points on a dismal 3-for-15 shooting.The Cavaliers initially led 12-10 before the Thunder took control, closing the first quarter with a blistering 22-2 run to establish a commanding 32-14 advantage. Gilgeous-Alexander spearheaded this offensive onslaught, scoring 15 points in the opening period. In the second quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander once again proved pivotal, contributing 11 points in a three-minute stretch, propelling the Thunder to a 75-49 halftime lead. The Thunder continued their dominance in the third quarter, matching their season high with 44 points to widen the gap to 119-81 entering the final frame. The Cavaliers, renowned for their defensive prowess, were completely outmatched by Oklahoma City's offensive firepower, which shot a scorching 60.3 percent from the field in the first three quarters. Oklahoma City's efficient ball movement contributed to their success, committing just six turnovers compared to Cleveland's 21.
NBA Oklahoma City Thunder Cleveland Cavaliers Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Donovan Mitchell Record Basketball
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