Thunder Stun Celtics,Gilgeous-Alexander Leads OKC to Victory
BOSTON – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 34 points Wednesday as the Oklahoma City thunder defeated the Boston Celtics 118-112,solidifying their hold on first place in the Western Conference. The Thunder now stand at 54-12, boasting the second-best record in the NBA, trailing only the Cleveland Cavaliers (55-10) of the Eastern Conference.
Oklahoma City Thunder’s Dominant Performance Against Boston Celtics
Oklahoma City bounced back from a loss to the Denver Nuggets that ended a seven-game winning streak, showcasing resilience against the reigning Eastern Conference champions.Gilgeous-Alexander,a top contender for the MVP award,shot 11-for-20 from the field,adding five rebounds and seven assists.
Holmgren’s Double-Double, Bench Spark Thunder’s Triumph
Chet Holmgren delivered a crucial double-double with 23 points and 15 rebounds, also connecting on three of six attempts from beyond the arc. The Thunder’s bench contributed a total of 34 points, with Isaiah Hartenstein and Isaiah Joe each scoring 11, Kenrich Williams adding 10, and Ousmane dieng chipping in two.
Thunder Weather celtics’ Rallies, Secure Victory in Fourth Quarter
The Thunder started strong with a 9-0 run and withstood multiple Celtics comeback attempts. After building as much as a 12-point lead in the third quarter, Boston rallied to tie the game at 88-88. However, Gilgeous-Alexander and Cason Wallace, who each scored eight points in the fourth quarter, led a decisive push to secure the win.
Tatum’s Return Not Enough as Celtics’ Win Streak Ends
The Celtics’ loss snapped a five-game winning streak and marred their recent home success. Jayson Tatum returned from an absence with 33 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists on 12-of-23 shooting. Derrick White added 22 points with six 3-pointers, and Al Horford contributed 18 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, also connecting on six 3-pointers, in 34 minutes. Jaylen Brown, the MVP of the previous NBA Finals, struggled, scoring only 10 points and missing all five of his 3-point attempts. With the loss, the Celtics fall to 47-19, remaining second in the Eastern Conference behind the Cavaliers.
porzingis Remains Sidelined with Viral Illness
The Celtics were again without Kristaps Porzingis, who missed his seventh consecutive game due to a viral illness. Porzingis recently stated on social media, ”I have been living with a viral illness that we have not yet been able to identify completely.I am recovering and improving. But I am still working for my return to the maximum to help this team. Thank you for your support, and I hope to return soon healthy.” He is averaging 18.9 points and 6.8 rebounds per game this season.
How did the Thunder’s bench performance contribute to their victory over the Celtics?
Thunder Stun Celtics: Your Top Questions Answered
Following the Oklahoma City Thunder’s impressive victory over the Boston Celtics,let’s break down the key details and answer your burning questions.
Q&A: Decoding the OKC Thunder’s victory
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Q: How significant was this win for the Thunder?
A: This win is HUGE! It solidified their first-place standing in the Western Conference and showcased their ability to bounce back after a loss. They now have the second-best record in the NBA.
Trivia: The Thunder haven’t been this dominant in years! This is a team to watch.
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Q: Who were the key players for the Thunder?
A: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the star, scoring 34 points. Chet Holmgren delivered a crucial double-double,and the bench provided essential scoring.
Actionable advice: Keep an eye on Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP candidacy!
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Q: How did the Celtics respond, and what went wrong?
A: The Celtics, despite Tatum’s return and a strong performance from White and Horford, struggled to contain the Thunder’s offense. brown’s poor shooting was a significant setback.
trivia: The Celtics’ loss snapped a five-game win streak, a testament to the Thunder’s performance.
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Q: What impact did Porzingis’ absence have on the celtics?
A: Porzingis’ absence due to illness has been a significant factor. His scoring and rebounding (18.9 points and 6.8 rebounds per game) are missed.
Actionable advice: Keep an eye on Porzingis’ health and when he is expected to return.
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Q: What’s next for both teams?
A: The Thunder are hoping to maintain their top position in the West. The Celtics will look to respond quickly and continue their fight in the Eastern Conference.
Trivia: The Thunder’s resilience will be tested as they face more tough opponents in the coming weeks.
The thunder’s victory was a testament to their skill and determination.Stay tuned for more electrifying NBA action!
