Oklahoma City had an opportunity to pull off a powerful street win on nationwide tv in opposition to one among the East’s playoff groups, however a final minute collapse buried the Thunder. Miami got here away with a 112-111 win in a back-and-forth recreation.
The Thunder held a five-point lead with beneath a minute left in the recreation. Victor Oladipo drilled a 3-pointer and Kenrich Williams missed two straight free throws opening the door for Jimmy Butler’s and-one. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 3-pointer was by no means a clear look, and OKC got here up simply quick.
Butler’s and-one to win the recreation was the story of the night time, as the Heat’s star scored solely at the free throw line. He was a whopping 23-of-23 from the charity stripe, and as a staff, Miami shot an NBA report 40-for-40 at the free throw line. On the flip aspect, Oklahoma City tried simply 21 free throws. It was an odd recreation all-around, and contemplating how the recreation was officiated, Oklahoma City’s effort to hold round all recreation lengthy was a powerful feat in itself.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
It took him some time to absolutely get going, however Gilgeous-Alexander turned in a good field rating. The Thunder star poured in 26 factors on a fair 9-of-18 from the ground and 2-of-4 from 3-point vary. Gilgeous-Alexander had an uncharacteristic six turnovers in the loss however he led the Thunder down the stretch.
Josh Giddey
Despite the loss, Giddey placed on a present. Oklahoma City’s level guard recorded a triple double with 18 factors, 15 rebounds and ten assists. He’s clearly taken leap over the final month, and Tuesday night time was simply one other instance. Like Gilgeous-Alexander, Giddey additionally turned the ball over six instances. The 12 mixed turnovers between the duo proved pricey on the offensive finish.
Jalen Williams
Williams displayed his promise and potential in entrance of NBA followers in all places. Oklahoma City’s rookie added 12 factors, 5 rebounds and two steals in 32 minutes in opposition to the Heat. His versatility on each ends of the ground opens up rather a lot for this younger Thunder staff.
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