Apr 4, 2025, 3:01 AM
Apr 3, 2025, 4:31 AM

Thunder extend winning streak to 11 games after defeating Pistons

Highlights
  • Oklahoma City Thunder secured their 11th straight victory by defeating the Detroit Pistons 119-103.
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 33 points, supported by Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren.
  • The Thunder's depth proved critical as they capitalize on a shorthanded Pistons team.
Story

On April 2, 2025, in Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City Thunder achieved a significant victory over the Detroit Pistons, winning 119-103. This match marked the Thunder's 11th consecutive win, showcasing their dominance in the league. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the standout performer, scoring 33 points, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren contributed effectively with 23 and 22 points, respectively, alongside Holmgren's impressive rebound and block stats. The Thunder displayed notable teamwork and depth, particularly in the second half of the game. The game featured a stark contrast between the Thunder's full roster and the short-handed Pistons, who were missing All-Star guard Cade Cunningham due to a bruised left calf, as well as three players suspended after an altercation with the Minnesota Timberwolves over the weekend. Tim Hardaway Jr. led the Pistons with 23 points, attempting to mitigate the absence of key players. However, the Thunder's superior depth was evident, allowing them to maintain control over the game. Oklahoma City established a lead early on, taking a 65-59 advantage into halftime, followed by a 10-0 run at the start of the second half. Despite a brief resurgence from Detroit that cut the deficit to four points in the fourth quarter, the Thunder closed out the game strong. The Thunder's success against Eastern Conference teams this season has been exceptional, having achieved a 29-1 record in such matchups, which is a historically high winning percentage for the league against teams from opposing conferences. With Commissioner Adam Silver in attendance, the Thunder continued to impress, showing their resilience and capability as they sit three games ahead of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the race for the best record in the league. Teams now face a crucial phase in the season as playoff positioning becomes the priority, and the performance of the Thunder raises concerns for potential playoff opponents, especially if they can maintain their form as the regular season nears its conclusion. The game concluded with the Thunder's Lu Dort hitting a critical 3-pointer that widened the lead, sealing the victory shortly before the end of the match. Both teams are set for upcoming games, with the Pistons visiting the Toronto Raptors and the Thunder traveling to face the Houston Rockets in their next respective fixtures.

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