NBA roundup: Shai shines with career-high as Thunder push winning streak to nine
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (26) equaled his career-high by scoring 45 points, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 120-114 victory against the Indiana Pacers on Thursday, thereby extending their NBA winning streak to nine games.
The Canadian guard demonstrated exceptional shooting, making 15 of 22 attempts from the field, 4 of 5 from beyond the arc, and converting all 11 of his free throws. He also contributed seven rebounds, eight assists, two blocks, and one steal in a standout performance.
"It's the extra plays that put you over the edge," Gilgeous-Alexander remarked following the game.
"We have a group of players who are eager to do whatever is necessary to secure victories, and that is the reason for our success."
Jalen Williams added 20 points, while Isaiah Hartenstein recorded 11 points and 13 rebounds, marking his 11th double-double of the season for the Thunder.
Leading the Western Conference, the Thunder hold a record of 24-5 and continue to thrive despite a loss in the NBA Cup final to Milwaukee, which does not affect their regular season record.
"The key aspect is that it is authentic," Hartenstein stated. "We are not pretending; we genuinely support one another."
"We are not trying to put on a show for the cameras or the public. Our mutual support is what makes this team special."
Andrew Nembhard was the top scorer for the Pacers (15-16) with 23 points. Indiana led 61-53 at halftime, but the Thunder rallied in the second half, finishing the game with a 17-7 run to secure the win.
"We didn't start the game as we had hoped," Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged. "However, that is what strong teams do; they navigate through challenges, and because we did, we achieved the victory."
Gilgeous-Alexander, who previously set his career high of 45 points last month against the Los Angeles Clippers, hit a crucial 3-pointer to give Oklahoma City a 114-109 lead with 59 seconds left and made six free throws in the final 36 seconds to clinch the win.
His pivotal 3-pointer was the result of diligent practice on his outside shooting and the confidence to continue shooting after a miss.
Gilgeous-Alexander expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, "It feels rewarding, but that is the essence of the work." He elaborated, "The shot went in because I had the confidence to take it.
"In previous instances, I might have felt disheartened after a miss and refrained from attempting again. However, I believe I have matured enough to trust my abilities, take the shot, remain committed to my approach, and it proved beneficial tonight.
"Nonetheless, the focus remains on progressing. There will be misses and successes. It is essential to keep shooting."
In a dramatic encounter in Florida, Tyler Herro emerged as the hero for the Miami Heat, hitting a jump shot with just 0.1 seconds left on the clock, securing an 89-88 victory against the Orlando Magic.
Herro led the Heat with 20 points, following comments from team president Pat Riley earlier in the day, indicating that there are no intentions to trade All-Star forward Jimmy Butler.
In Washington, the struggling Wizards improved their record to 5-23 by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 113-110, with Jordan Poole contributing 25 points, including a crucial 3-pointer that put Washington ahead with 8.1 seconds remaining.
The Atlanta Hawks triumphed over the Chicago Bulls 141-133, powered by Jalen Johnson's 30 points and 15 rebounds, alongside Trae Young's 27 points and 13 assists. Zach LaVine scored 37 points for the Bulls in a losing effort.
The Houston Rockets, led by Jalen Green's 30 points and a strong 27-point performance from Cam Whitmore off the bench, defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 128-111.
The Milwaukee Bucks faced a setback at home against the Brooklyn Nets, losing 111-105, with stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard sidelined due to illness. Cameron Johnson led the Nets with 29 points.
Zach Edey recorded 21 points and 16 rebounds, while Jaren Jackson contributed 21 points and 11 rebounds, helping the Memphis Grizzlies secure a commanding 155-126 victory over the Toronto Raptors.
SportsLigue