Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a dominant 136-128 victory over the Washington Wizards during Monday night’s NBA action, with Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 32 points and Holmgren contributing 31.
The win relieved the Thunder, halting a potential losing streak after setbacks in Atlanta and Brooklyn on their four-game road trip. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised the team’s improved intensity and effort compared to the previous games.
“I thought our intensity and how hard we played tonight was much, much better,” Daigneault said. “And there were times in those other two games where we gave up a lot of unearned stuff. I didn’t think much tonight was unearned.”
Jalen Williams also stood out with 21 points and 10 assists, contributing to the team’s season-high 37 assists. Josh Giddey, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Holmgren were instrumental in this achievement, with Giddey dishing out nine assists alone.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Washington Wizards Updates
Isaiah Joe, who scored 16 points off the bench, highlighted the team’s effectiveness when everyone is involved in the game. The Thunder showcased their shooting prowess, hitting 59.1% from the field and 50% from the three-point line, nearly breaking season records in both categories.
“When everybody gets the feel for the game, we’re really tough to guard,” Joe said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Washington Wizards Updates
Holmgren’s performance was a highlight, with the 7-foot-1 rookie impressing by making 11 of 14 shots, including four three-pointers. Washington coach Wes Unseld Jr. commended Holmgren’s unique abilities and potential for growth.
“Very unique skill set for a guy with his length and size,” Unseld said. “He’ll get more comfortable as he gets a little stronger. But just his versatility, his length and size, of course, and at the rim defensively.”
Despite Jordan Poole’s 24 points and Kyle Kuzma’s double-double of 22 points and 15 rebounds, the Wizards faced their fifth consecutive defeat. Tyus Jones added 18 points and nine assists for Washington. The Wizards’ 3-point shooting, at 46.9%, wasn’t enough to counter the Thunder’s offensive onslaught.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder, Washington Wizards Updates
Gilgeous-Alexander’s key plays in response to Washington’s attempts to close the gap, and Williams’ crucial 11 points in the fourth quarter ensured the Thunder maintained a comfortable lead throughout the game.
“Down the stretch, we still played with each other,” Williams said. “We were still moving the ball.”
Looking ahead, the Thunder will take on the Miami Heat, while the Wizards face the Indiana Pacers in their respective next games.
