Recent wins show reports of the Thunder’s demise are greatly exaggerated despite injuries

Injuries change the outlook

Injuries have reshaped expectations across the NBA, including in the Western Conference. Oklahoma City and San Antonio had appeared headed toward a contest for a place in the conference finals.

A quick response to losses

Oklahoma City was 4-0 when the injuries struck, then lost consecutive games to Dallas and Houston by more than 20 points. The back-to-back defeats marked an unusual setback for a team that had established itself as a contender.

The Thunder followed those losses with two wins over Cleveland, entering their first NBA Cup game against Memphis on a winning streak. Cleveland was also dealing with absences, with Peyton Watson and Jaylon Tyson unavailable.

Gilgeous-Alexander leads on

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has continued scoring at a high rate as he pursues a third straight MVP award, a feat that would make him the fourth player in NBA history to achieve it. Oklahoma City has been plus-5.8 points per 100 possessions with him on the floor.

Across the two Cleveland victories, Gilgeous-Alexander recorded 85 points and 16 assists. Ajay Mitchell is averaging 17.8 points, while Jared McCain offers another scoring option; Mitchell’s three-point shooting has been off so far.

Depth gives options

With Holmgren out, Isaiah Hartenstein and Jaylin Williams remain available at center, and rookie Aday Mara has contributed to winning minutes. Oklahoma City is plus-5.2 points per 100 possessions with Mara on the court.

Rookie Bennett Stirtz had an uneven start, but against Cleveland he scored 16 points on 88.9% true shooting and finished plus-5 in just under 22 minutes. Alex Caruso remains a key defender, while Micah Peavy, Kenrich Williams and Dalen Terry provide additional regular-season minutes.