OKC Thunder’s Historic 8-0 Start: A Sign of Dominance or a Fluke? The NBA’s New Powerhouse Emerges Amidst Chaos and Controversy in Los Angeles!
The Oklahoma City Thunder have made a resounding statement in the early part of the NBA season, achieving an unprecedented 8-0 start with a decisive 126-107 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. This achievement not only marks a franchise record but also positions the Thunder as one of the most formidable teams in the league. As the dust settles in Inglewood, California, the implications of this start ripple through the NBA, raising questions about the balance of power in the league and the future of both the Thunder and their rivals.
The atmosphere at Intuit Dome was electric before the game, filled with extravagant displays typical of a California spectacle. Fireworks, flames, and a lavish light show set the stage for a showdown that many anticipated would be a tight contest. However, what transpired on the court quickly turned into a showcase of Thunder dominance, led by the extraordinary performance of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. With 30 points and 12 assists in just 29 minutes, Gilgeous-Alexander not only solidified his status as a star but also illustrated the depth of talent that the Thunder possess this season.
The Thunder’s offensive prowess was complemented by a tenacious defense that capitalized on the Clippers’ mistakes. Despite Los Angeles starting strong, taking an early 33-23 lead, the Thunder turned the tide in the second quarter. They forced eight turnovers, which translated into 15 points, narrowing the gap and ultimately taking control of the game. This ability to adapt and capitalize on the opponent’s weaknesses is a hallmark of championship-caliber teams, and the Thunder are clearly establishing themselves in that conversation.
A significant factor in the Thunder’s success has been the emergence of players like Cason Wallace and Ajay Mitchell, who have both made substantial contributions on both ends of the floor. Wallace’s defensive skills were put to the test against James Harden, who scored 25 points despite the Thunder’s best efforts. Harden’s performance, while impressive, highlighted the struggles of the Clippers, who were missing key players like Kawhi Leonard and Bradley Beal. The absence of these stars not only affected the Clippers’ scoring but also their defensive integrity, which the Thunder exploited ruthlessly.
Isaiah Joe’s performance off the bench was another story of the night. With 22 points on 7-for-12 shooting, including six three-pointers, Joe provided the Thunder with a much-needed spark. His ability to shoot from distance has made him a valuable asset, particularly since he missed the first five games of the season due to injury. His current form suggests he could be a game-changer as the season progresses, and his record-breaking start for most three-pointers in the first three games of the season underscores his importance to the team.
The Thunder’s success is not merely a product of individual talent but also a testament to their collective effort and coaching. The strategic adjustments made by the coaching staff have allowed the team to thrive in high-pressure situations. The ability to come back from a deficit, as they did against the Clippers, speaks volumes about their resilience and determination. This trait is crucial in a league where games can pivot on a single play or moment.
Furthermore, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic streak of 20-point games has put him in elite company, trailing only legends like Wilt Chamberlain. This achievement not only cements his status as one of the league’s premier players but also reflects the larger narrative of the Thunder’s rise. As they continue to build on their early success, the question remains: can they maintain this level of performance throughout the season?
The Thunder’s current trajectory begs comparisons to other teams that have experienced early-season success only to falter later on. The NBA is notorious for its unpredictability; injuries, fatigue, and internal dynamics can derail even the most promising starts. The Thunder must navigate these challenges while building chemistry and consistency.
In contrast, the Clippers find themselves at a crossroads. With their star-studded roster struggling to find its footing, questions about team cohesion and performance will loom large. The absence of key players has exposed vulnerabilities that could hinder their playoff aspirations. The dynamics of the Western Conference are shifting, and the Thunder’s rise could signal a new order in the league.
As the Thunder prepare for their next matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, the stakes will only get higher. Maintaining their undefeated record will require not only skill and strategy but also mental fortitude. The landscape of the NBA is ever-changing, and the Thunder must remain vigilant to secure their place among the league’s elite.
The implications of the Thunder’s success extend beyond wins and losses; they represent a new era for a franchise once defined by its struggles. As they continue to build on their early momentum, the Thunder are not just a team to watch; they are reshaping the narrative of the NBA. Whether this is the dawn of a new dynasty or merely a flash in the pan remains to be seen, but for now, the Thunder are soaring high, and the basketball world is taking notice.
INGLEWOOD, CA – Intuit Dome, in typical California fashion, was as over-the-top as could be before tipoff on Tuesday.
Fireworks popped off during the National Anthem. Flames erupted from the stanchion during the starting lineup introduction. And smoke shot out of the $100-million “Halo Board” to cloud up the rafters, only to be pierced by a laser light show.
But by the end of the game, the flashiest venue in all of basketball grew stale. Even the spirit of those inside The Wall had been broken by a barrage of Thunder buckets.
The only spectacle remaining was the celebration of OKC’s players, who improved to 8-0 with a 126-107 win over the Clippers. The Thunder has now set a franchise record for the most wins to start a season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with 30 points and 12 assists in only 29 minutes. It marked his first double-double performance of the season.
Here are three takeaways from the game:
Pre-order new book on Thunder’s run to NBA title
James Harden is a tough cover
Cason Wallace has developed a reputation for having some of the best hands in the NBA. And he reminds everyone that after a steal and a transition bucket by flashing his palms in a celebration that mimics the Allstate logo.
But Wallace was tasked with covering what’s known as a high-risk client on Tuesday.
That would be James Harden, who went from 0 to 60 miles per hour in an instant to start the contest. He racked up 17 points during the first quarter on 5-for-8 shooting from the field (4 for 5 from deep), and he continued to torch the Thunder after that.
When Harden gathered a pass behind the arc midway through the second quarter, Wallace waved his havoc-causing hands in the air with hopes of deterring the lethal bucket getter. But Harden still launched a deep bomb over them and watched it find the bottom of the net.
On a night when scoring came at a premium for Los Angeles, which was without Kawhi Leonard (right ankle sprain) and Bradley Beal (right knee injury management), Harden finished with 25 points and six assists in 30 minutes.
Thunder stormed back in the second quarter by forcing turnovers
Wallace isn’t the only Thunder player with good hands.
Ajay Mitchell also showcased his medaling mitts late in the second quarter when Kris Dunn waited for John Collins to cut to the rim. But before that happened, he felt the ball get poked away.
The culprit was Mitchell. He forced a loose ball that was collected by Isaiah Joe, who ultimately capped off the play on the other end by sinking a 3-pointer.
Despite ranking 29th in the NBA in turnovers per game (17.8), Los Angeles didn’t commit any turnovers in the first quarter. That helped it claim a 33-23 lead, and OKC even trailed by a season-high 13 points during that stretch.
But the Thunder stormed back in the second quarter by forcing eight turnovers, which it converted into 15 points. That helped it cut the deficit to 57-56 at halftime.
OKC finished the night with 19 forced turnovers. It converted those miscues into 34 points.
Isaiah Joe provided a shot of adrenaline
On a night that marked a late game for the Thunder, it needed a cup of Joe to wake up.
OKC received a shot of adrenaline off the bench from Joe, who erupted for 22 points on 7-for-12 shooting from the field (6 for 10 from deep). It was another strong showing from the sharpshooting guard, who has made up for lost time after missing the first five games due to a left knee contusion.
Joe is shooting 14 for 29 from distance (48.3%) this season. His 14 made 3-pointers marks the most by any Thunder player in franchise history throughout the first three games of a season. That record was previously set by Kevin Martin (12) in 2012-13.
Tip-ins
- Gilgeous-Alexander now has sole possession of third place for the longest streak of 20-point performances in the regular season (80) throughout NBA history. He was tied with Oscar Robertson. Gilgeous-Alexander only trails Wilt Chamberlain, who had two streaks of 126 games and 92 games.
- Chet Holmgren made his return after missing the last three games due to a lower back sprain. He finished with 11 points, five rebounds and three blocks.
- Lu Dort suffered a right shoulder contusion midway through the second quarter. And after briefly returning during the third quarter, he checked out of the game and did not return.
Justin Martinez covers the Thunder and NBA for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Justin? He can be reached at jmartinez@oklahoman.com or on X/Twitter at @Justintohoops. Sign up for the Thunder Sports Minute newsletter to access more NBA coverage. Support Justin’s work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com.
Thunder at Trail Blazers
TIPOFF: 9 p.m. Wednesday at Moda Center in Portland, Oregon
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Thunder roars past Clippers, sets OKC record with 8-0 start to season