The Oklahoma City Thunder, nearing the midpoint of the season, are on the cusp of leading the Western Conference, but remain undaunted by their impressive performance.
Leading the charge, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 28 points and Chet Holmgren contributed 23, propelling the Thunder to a 128-120 victory over the Miami Heat on Wednesday. This win marks Oklahoma City’s strongest start in 36 games since the 2015-16 season, recalling the days of Durant and Westbrook.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault attributes their success to continuous improvement and a consistent approach to each game. The team’s strategy paid off with two significant runs in the second half, including a 13-0 burst at the start of the third quarter and a decisive 17-0 stretch in the late third and early fourth quarters. This effectively dampened the Heat’s momentum, as they struggled with their shooting.
Jalen Williams also shone with 19 points, a personal best of 12 assists, and nine rebounds. Lu Dort and Isaiah Joe contributed 14 and 11 points, respectively, helping the Thunder secure their second victory against Miami in their last ten matchups.
The Thunder’s defensive efforts, particularly in the third quarter and early fourth, were pivotal, according to Williams. On the other side, Bam Adebayo led Miami with 25 points, complemented by Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Haywood Highsmith with 21 and 19 points, respectively.
Despite a late 10-0 run by Miami, reducing the gap to six points with just over a minute left, they failed to maintain the momentum. Injuries and a constantly changing lineup have been a challenge for Miami, which used its 20th different starting lineup in 37 games.
The Heat had a peculiar first half, leading 69-65 despite the Thunder’s 69.2% shooting accuracy, a rarity in NBA history.
Both teams look forward to their next games, with the Thunder hosting Portland and the Heat facing Orlando.
