Overview
- Oklahoma City flipped an early rebounding deficit, winning the second half on the glass 30-20 and converting 21 second-chance points.
- Chet Holmgren closed with 20 points, 14 rebounds and five blocks, pouring in 14 third-quarter points to create separation.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shot 8-for-22 but made 13 of 14 free throws to reach 29 points in 35:50.
- Isaiah Joe added 17 points off the bench as the Thunder prevailed despite 40.2% shooting from the field.
- Zion Williamson had 21 points and 11 rebounds, yet New Orleans shot 34.3% with the other starters combining to go 14-for-59, and tensions flared late between Lu Dort and Jeremiah Fears.