Thunder Shed Perfection in Dallas, 120-96, as SGA Vows to Do More
Oklahoma City falls to Dallas behind a 5-of-32 three-point night, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander admitting the squad must fight harder on the boards.
By Jabari Long ·
The Oklahoma City Thunder dropped their first game of the season on Wednesday night.
Dallas overwhelmed the visitors with a 120-96 victory. Oklahoma City struggled from deep, converting only five of 32 three-point attempts. The team also lost the rebounding battle, an issue Shai Gilgeous-Alexander identified as the primary reason for the defeat.
Gilgeous-Alexander scored 21 points in the loss. Ajay Mitchell led the Thunder with 29. Mitchell followed a career-high 30-point performance against Phoenix on Monday with this strong outing. Gilgeous-Alexander praised Mitchell for his ability to finish through contact. He described his teammate as relentless and a big-time player who will last a long time in the league.
The Thunder are managing a thin lineup. Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace face extended absences. Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged that playing with smaller personnel makes the game more challenging. He stated that the team must fight more and be tougher on the glass to remain competitive. He rejected the notion that the three-game stretch over four days caused the drop in performance. He noted that such schedules are a standard part of the NBA season.
The reigning MVP said he must do more to keep the team in winning positions. He emphasized the bond between the players, calling them brothers and friends. He said those relationships extend beyond basketball. The Thunder return from Dallas with a 4-1 record.
