Thunder bounce back to winning ways with solid victory over Trail Blazers

Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points, leading the Thunder to a 118-108 victory over the Trail Blazers in Portland on Sunday, thereby improving their NBA-best record to 37-8.

The Thunder, who faced an unexpected defeat against the depleted Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, managed to withstand a late rally from the Trail Blazers, ending their four-game winning streak.

Jalen Williams contributed 24 points, while Isaiah Joe added 16 points off the bench. Center Isaiah Hartenstein, returning after a five-game absence due to a calf injury, recorded 14 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, and a crucial block.

Despite their lead, the Western Conference leaders encountered pressure late in the game, as Portland, down by 15 points entering the fourth quarter, narrowed the gap to six with a three-pointer from Anfernee Simons with 2:37 left on the clock.

With Oklahoma City leading 112-106 and 1:49 remaining, Hartenstein, assisted by Gilgeous-Alexander, executed a dunk to extend the lead. Gilgeous-Alexander then followed with a driving layup, restoring a double-digit advantage.

"Just executing," Hartenstein remarked regarding the strategy to fend off the Trail Blazers. "Focusing on the details."

Gilgeous-Alexander, who entered the game averaging 32 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.3 rebounds, also recorded five rebounds, one assist, and three of the Thunder's seven steals.

Oklahoma City dominated the paint, outscoring the Blazers 52-22, and held a significant 28-13 edge in second-chance points.

Deni Avdija was the standout performer for the Trail Blazers, contributing 28 points, along with eight rebounds and eight assists.

Scoot Henderson provided a significant impact off the bench with 25 points, while Toumani Camara added 24 points. However, the Blazers have now suffered 15 consecutive defeats against the Thunder.

The Blazers initially established a swift 10-point lead, but the Thunder responded by finishing the first quarter with a 17-7 run, leveling the score at 27-27.

The Thunder extended their lead to as much as 19 points, ultimately securing a 66-53 advantage by halftime.