The Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder proceed to appear like one of many NBA’s most dominant forces. After struggling their solely lack of the season to Portland on November 5, OKC has not solely crushed the Blazers twice since however has performed almost flawless basketball. Their newest victory, a 123-115 residence win, pushed the Thunder to 20-1 and prolonged their profitable streak to 12.

The matchup featured 22 ties and 15 lead adjustments earlier than OKC broke via within the fourth quarter. Trailing by two coming into the ultimate body, the Thunder opened with a 17-6 run and by no means let the lead slip.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as soon as once more set the tone with 26 factors on 8-of-15 taking pictures, together with 10 within the fourth quarter. His efficiency marked his 93rd straight recreation with no less than 20 factors, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain’s mark of 92 for the second-longest streak in NBA historical past. The one participant forward of him is Chamberlain himself with 126.

Chet Holmgren added 19 factors and 9 rebounds, whereas Jalen Williams delivered 16 factors, eight rebounds, and 5 assists in his second recreation again from wrist surgical procedure.

Portland’s Deni Avdija continued his breakout season with an enormous triple-double of 31 factors, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists.

OKC’s begin locations them in uncommon firm. Solely three different groups have received 20 of their first 21 video games: the 2015 Warriors, the 1994 Rockets, and the 1970 Knicks. These groups all completed as championship contenders, and two received the title.

This Thunder group is statistically outpacing them. They lead with 122.2 factors and 10.4 steals per recreation, whereas displaying elite effectivity on each ends. Their level differential of plus 15.5 is on observe to shatter the franchise report.

The Thunder had been historic final season. To date, this yr’s group seems even higher.