The Oklahoma City Thunder saw firsthand what playoff basketball is like. Step into a hostile environment and play a roller coaster-like game. In a frustrating lock fight, the Dallas Mavericks' tough shotmaking was too much for the Thunder to overcome.
Although their offense started off lackluster and missed many opportunities, including a 1-7 start from beyond the arc, the Thunder ultimately settled into a back-and-forth game in the first half. However, in the first 24 minutes, Isaiah Joe's triple hit the bench, so the Thunder entered the break with a one-point advantage.
The Thunder came out of the locker room with momentum, and things started to click, opening up a 10-point lead. However, it wasn't long before Oklahoma City ran into trouble and brought the crowd back with a 13-0 romp at Dallas.
This unruly Dallas faithful contributed to the Mavericks' momentum and may have contributed to a number of uncharacteristically forced turnovers by Oklahoma City.
The Mavericks took control of this game heading into the final frame, going on a 24-9 run with a 13-5 scoring sprint in the final quarter to give them the cushion to end this game and hold Oklahoma City at arm's length. was used for.
Difficult shot-making from Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic made the Thunder struggle to advance even when playing near-perfect defense.
In the end, shots falling, poor defense and a lack of energy on the glass led to Oklahoma City's loss.
Jaylen Williams missed part of the game with what appeared to be an ankle injury, and Chet Holmgren had a memorable night despite having limited offensive impact despite being a defensive back. was just Isaiah Joe outside the pines.
Oklahoma City tried everything in this contest, including hacking Derek Lively II from the floor when the rookie big man couldn't score at the line.
In the end, the Thunder were unable to find sustained success in this contest. The Mavericks stopped Oklahoma City from gaining momentum midway through the third period, and the Mavericks were outmatched in a tough shot-making battle.
Lively II finished 8-for-12 at the line, which proved to be the difference in this contest. Dallas destroyed Oklahoma City with sloppy play and rattling jumpers while giving it their all in the final minutes.
The Thunder swept the New Orleans Pelicans, chasing the series for the first time this postseason after splitting the first two games at home. Monday night in Dallas is almost a must-win for OKC.
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