Thunder dominate Grizzlies with record-setting 35-point lead in playoffs

In a highly anticipated NBA playoff matchup on April 20, 2025, the Oklahoma City Thunder faced the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 1 of their first-round series. This game took place at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, where the top-seeded Thunder aimed for a strong playoff run against a lower-seeded Grizzlies team that barely made it into the playoffs through the Play-In Tournament. Fans were eager to witness what they expected would be a thrilling matchup, although the Grizzlies were significant underdogs entering this contest. The game started explosively for the Thunder as they established an unprecedented 35-point lead during the first half of play, marking the largest-ever first-half lead in any playoff Game 1 since the NBA began tracking play-by-play data in the 1996-97 season. The Thunder's prowess on both ends of the floor allowed them to control the pace of the game effectively. They finished the first half with a commanding 68-36 lead, also setting a franchise record for the biggest halftime lead in playoff history. In stark contrast, the Grizzlies faced their largest halftime deficit in playoff history, raising questions about their viability in this contest. The significance of the Thunder's performance cannot be overstated, particularly given their previous matchups against the Grizzlies during the regular season. The Thunder had swept the season series against Memphis, winning all four games, albeit with neither team playing at full strength during those encounters. With the absence of key injuries affecting players like Jaylen Wells and Brandon Clarke for the Grizzlies, the playoff series was seen as an uphill battle for Memphis. Looking ahead, the Thunder's dominant start not only set the tone for the series but also showcased their ambition to make a deep playoff run, potentially culminating in a trip to the NBA Finals. This first game served as a powerful reminder of Oklahoma City's capabilities, emphasizing the need for role players to gain confidence and rhythm as the playoffs progress. As the series unfolds, both teams will need to adjust their strategies based on the outcomes of subsequent games, but the Thunder's record-setting performance established a clear precedent for what fans can expect in the coming weeks.