The defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder are showing no signs of slowing down, defeating the Atlanta Hawks 117-100 on Saturday night to improve to 3-0 [2]. Chet Holmgren led the charge with an impressive 31 points and 12 rebounds, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 30 points of his own [2].
Key Moments
Oklahoma City has started the season with high intensity, becoming the first team in NBA history to begin the year with back-to-back double-overtime games [3]. The Thunder narrowly defeated Kevin Durant and the Rockets in their home opener [3]. The team continued their winning streak against a short-handed Atlanta Hawks team [2]. A significant aspect of the Thunder's success is their ability to generate turnovers and convert them into points, a consistent strength over the past two seasons [6].
Player Impact
Chet Holmgren and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have been instrumental in the Thunder's early success [2]. Holmgren's dominant performance against the Hawks, with 31 points and 12 rebounds, highlights his importance to the team [2]. Gilgeous-Alexander also posted a cryptic message following a dramatic win, further fueling excitement around the team [8]. Coach Mark Daigneault has also noted the improvements in Ajay Mitchell [7].
Looking ahead, the Thunder (3-0) will face the Dallas Mavericks (1-2) on Monday at the American Airlines Center [5]. Oklahoma City is favored by 8.5 points to extend their winning streak [1]. This game marks the start of a road-and-home back-to-back for OKC [9]. The Thunder's ability to generate turnovers and capitalize on those opportunities will be crucial against the Mavericks [6]. Limiting the Mavericks' scoring will also be key to securing another victory [4].
TL;DR
- The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Atlanta Hawks 117-100, moving to 3-0 on the season [2].
- Chet Holmgren had 31 points and 12 rebounds, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 30 points in the victory against Atlanta [2].
- OKC started the season making NBA history with back-to-back double overtime games [3].
- The Thunder will face the Dallas Mavericks on Monday, aiming to extend their winning streak [5].