2024-01-03 05:20:45
The Boston Celtics, leaders of the Eastern Conference and number 1 in the NBA regular season, had won their last six games (and are still undefeated at home). But on Tuesday, they lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder (127-123), ranked second in the Western Conference. The latter now has five consecutive successes, the best current series in the NBA.
Oklahoma City had an 18-point lead
After a balanced first period (61-58 for Boston), the Oklahoma franchise broke away with the score, following passing a 40-25 to their opponent. And, in the last quarter, it reached its peak, with a lead of 18 points (108-90, 40th). But the Celtics began a comeback and were only two points behind (121-119), with only 41 seconds left to play.
“OKC” held on, however, thanks to series of successful free throws by Josh Giddey and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. In one week, the Thunder will have beaten the leader of the Western conference (Minnesota), the defending champion (Denver) and the number 1 in the Eastern conference (Boston). In the standings in the West, Oklahoma City is only one victory away from the Minnesota Timberwolves, who did not play on Tuesday (but who will host New Orleans on Wednesday).
36 points pour Gilgeous-Alexander
Gilgeous-Alexander was the No. 1 architect of the Thunder’s victory, with 36 points (14/22 shooting including 3/5 three-pointers). Chet Holmgren scored 14 points and also stood out on defense with four blocks. Jalen Williams also shone in the defensive game, signing five interceptions. The French Ousmane Dieng and Olivier Sarr did not play. They were transferred to the G League, with the Oklahoma City Blue.
For Boston, Kristaps Porzingis scored 34 points and Jayson Tatum, 30. They both achieved a double-double, having taken 10 and 13 rebounds respectively. Despite their defeat, the Celtics remain leaders of the Eastern Conference, with two victories ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks (who will go to Indiana on Wednesday). The Oklahoma City Thunder will play once more on Wednesday in Atlanta. Boston will be at rest.
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