Thunder end losing streak with impressive 125-122 road win over Blazers

The Oklahoma City Thunder came into last night’s road game against the Portland Blazers looking to snap a three-game losing streak. Oklahoma City opened up strong, scoring 34 first-quarter points and taking a 10 point lead into the second quarter.

There were not many lead changes in this game, as the Thunder held on to their lead throughout most of the game. However, Portland did take a 95-94 lead early in the fourth quarter, making the game back and forth after that.

After Oklahoma City built up a lead in the fourth, Damian Lillard tried to bring Portland back but it was too little too late. Some late Shai Gilgeous-Alexander free throws helped the Thunder secure a 125-122 victory.

Major Takeaways

• Mike Muscala

A major factor in the Thunder's win was a great bench performance from Mike Muscala. The stretch big man was second on the team in scoring with 23 points. In addition, Muscala hit a career-high six three-pointers.

What was most impressive is Muscala had such great production without much playing time. Muscala scored his 23 points while only playing 21 minutes.

Muscala’s bench performance was needed to combat what Anfernee Simmons was doing for Portland’s bench. Simmons scored a season-high 26 points off the bench for the Blazers last night.

Out shooting the Blazers

Muscala’s hot hand must’ve been contagious as the Thunder shot better than the Blazers. Overall, the Thunder shot 45% from three and over 50% from the field.

Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder in scoring with 24 points and altogether the Thunder had five players in double digits.

Oklahoma City’s 125 points last night was their third-highest scoring output of the season thus far. The Thunder will need this level of offensive firepower on Wednesday when they face the Phoenix Suns who are currently on a two-game losing streak.