Oklahoma City Thunder Defeat Dallas Mavericks 132-111

The defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder hosted the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. The Thunder defeated the Mavericks 133-111 at the Paycom Center. Oklahoma City improved to 22-1, while Dallas fell to 8-16.

In case you missed it, Ryan Nembhard recorded his third consecutive 10-point, 5-assist half on Wednesday. Nembhard, 22, had a team-high 13 points and a game-high 6 assists in the first half. He also became the first undrafted rookie to have consecutive 10-assist games since Brandon Williams in March 2022.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks Starters

Friday’s game looked lopsided on paper. The last time the two teams played, Oklahoma City defeated Dallas 101-94. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 23 points, four rebounds, and eight assists.

Oklahoma City’s starting lineup featured Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, Chet Holmgren, and Jaylin Williams. Oklahoma City ruled out Thomas Sorber (knee), Nikola Topic (cancer), Isaiah Hartenstein (soleus), Alex Caruso (quad), Luguentz Dort (adductor), and Isaiah Joe (knee).

Dallas’ starting lineup featured Nembhard, Max Christie, Cooper Flagg, Naji Marshall, and Anthony Davis. Dallas ruled out Kyrie Irving (knee), Dante Exum (knee), Dereck Lively II (foot), PJ Washington (ankle), and Daniel Gafford (ankle).

As of Thursday, Lively II, 21, is seeking multiple opinions on the next steps in his treatment process. The 21-year-old has been sidelined due to swelling and discomfort in his right foot.

Thunder vs. Mavericks Recap

Friday’s game showcased an exciting rivalry, despite Oklahoma City sitting comfortably and Dallas trailing in the Western Conference. The two teams’ energetic offenses, rising stars, and high-energy playstyles contribute to the excitement.

Dallas took an early 9-6 lead in the first quarter. Dallas’ free throw and turnover issues still remained, but the highlight-reel plays stood out. Marshall mastered the art of the grab-and-go. Jaylin Williams made his long-awaited return and made an off-balance three-pointer. The game was tied 27-27 at the end of the first.

Both teams shrugged off a slow start in the second quarter. Klay Thompson made a corner three-pointer. Nembhard made back-to-back three-pointers. Nembhard’s connection with Flagg stayed strong. Jalen Williams stole the ball and slammed it home. Oklahoma City took a 63-48 lead into halftime.

Oklahoma City jumped out to a 77-53 lead to open the third quarter. Holmgren ran full speed down the lane for the two-handed slam. Dallas fell further behind, but Christie had several solid defensive possessions that made up for Dallas’ shortcomings. Oklahoma City took a 104-74 lead after three quarters.

Both teams sprang into action to start the fourth quarter. Brooks Barnhizer played solid defense, while Chris Youngblood had an equally solid finish. Jaden Hardy made a corner three-pointer off a Brandon Williams feed. The Thunder won 132-111 in regulation.

Final Thoughts

Dallas returns home to open a two-game homestand vs. the Houston Rockets on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Central, while Oklahoma City hits the road to face the Utah Jazz on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. Mountain.

For Dallas, focus on Nembhard. He became the first rookie since 1977-78 to notch at least 40 points, 20 assists, and 1 or fewer turnovers in a two-game span on Wednesday. He joined three other rookies, including his older brother Andrew Nembhard.

For Oklahoma City, pay attention to Oklahoma City’s potential lead over the 73-win Golden State Warriors in 2015-16. Tuesday’s win helped Oklahoma City become the fourth team in NBA history to start a season 21-1 or better. The 73-win Warriors also started 2015-16 with 21-1 before posting the best regular season record of 73-9.