Oklahoma City Thunder dominates Sacramento Kings in NBA Cup clash
The Sacramento Kings started strong, outscoring the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first quarter, but the reigning NBA champions soon took control. Playing in Sacramento, the Thunder cruised to an easy 132-101 victory in front of 15,767 fans at Golden 1 Center.
Key Performers
- Isaiah Hartenstein led the Thunder with 33 points and 19 rebounds, dominating under the rim.
- Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 30 points for Oklahoma City, improving their record to 9-1.
- Ajay Mitchell contributed 18 points and 10 assists, while Isaiah Joe scored 13 off the bench.
- Chet Holmgren, recently back from a lower back strain, posted 10 points and seven rebounds.
Kings Struggle to Keep Up
- Russell Westbrook led Sacramento with 24 points, six rebounds, and nine assists.
- DeMar DeRozan scored 18, and Malik Monk added 15 points from the bench.
- Rookie Maxime Raynaud recorded career highs with eight points and 10 rebounds.
Injury Report
Domantas Sabonis missed his second straight game due to a left ribcage contusion sustained during Monday’s loss to the Denver Nuggets.
Team Comparison
- The Thunder outshot the Kings 53.8% to 41.3%.
- They also controlled the boards 52-38 and dominated points in the paint 60-34.
“The game wasn’t nearly as close as the defending NBA champions pulled away for an easy win.”
Summary
The Thunder bounced back from their first defeat of the season with a dominant display, overwhelming the Kings in nearly every statistical category.
Author’s summary: Oklahoma City bounced back strong, crushing Sacramento with superior shooting, rebounding, and paint control in a decisive NBA Cup win.