The Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder put on a show for the ages in a thrilling battle between the NBA’s top two teams. In the end, it was the Cavs who prevailed 129-122, extending their own winning streak to 11 games while snapping the Thunder’s historic 15-game run.
A Potential NBA Finals Preview
Though it’s still early in the season, the intense and high-level play exhibited by both teams had all the makings of a championship matchup. The game featured a staggering 30 lead changes, with neither squad able to pull ahead by more than nine points.
As Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff noted after the game:
That was playoff basketball in January. The level of intensity, execution, and competitiveness from both teams was off the charts. If we meet again in June, buckle up, because it’s going to be one heck of a series.
J.B. Bickerstaff, Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach
Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley Lead the Way
While Donovan Mitchell struggled with his shot, going just 3-of-16 from the field for 11 points, the Cavs’ frontcourt duo of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley picked up the slack. Allen led the team with 25 points, while Mobley added 21 of his own.
Their impact went beyond just scoring, as they combined for an impressive 22 rebounds and 13 assists. Allen spoke about the team’s resilience and depth after the win:
That’s the beauty of our squad. Even when one of our main guys has an off night, we have the talent and chemistry to step up and get the job done. It’s a total team effort every single night.
Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers Center
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shines in Defeat
For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his stellar play, pouring in a game-high 31 points. Rookie sensation Jalen Williams also impressed with 25 points of his own.
Despite the loss, Oklahoma City showcased their own balance and emerging young talent. Center Isaiah Hartenstein nearly recorded a triple-double with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists.
A Historic Start for the Cavaliers
With the win, the Cavaliers improved their NBA-best record to a blistering 32-4, including a perfect 11-0 mark against Western Conference opponents. They also remained nearly unbeatable at home, now 19-1 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
This 32-4 start puts them in truly elite historical company:
- 2015-16 Golden State Warriors: 34-2
- 1966-67 Philadelphia 76ers: 33-3
- 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers: 33-3
- 1995-96 Chicago Bulls: 33-3
The Cavaliers will look to keep rolling as they head out on a five-game West Coast road trip. Meanwhile, the Thunder will aim to start a new winning streak as they return home to face the Denver Nuggets on Friday night.
One thing is certain: if these teams do collide again come June, the basketball world will be in for an absolute treat. The future of the NBA is blindingly bright with emerging powers like the Cavaliers and Thunder leading the charge into a new era.
