An Instant Hero
Just as he returned from injury, Alexander immediately became the Thunder’s hero with a clutch shot! After missing the previous two games due to a quadriceps strain, Alexander finally made his return to the court on the 1st of the month. With only 2.6 seconds left in the game, he calmly sank a mid-range jumper to secure a thrilling 113-112 victory over the Knicks, helping the Thunder reclaim the top spot in the Western Conference with a record of 52 wins and 22 losses. Simultaneously, they secured a playoff berth along with the Western Conference’s second-placed Nuggets.
Tense Moments
In a game that went down to the wire, the Thunder found themselves leading 111-108 as the clock wound down. However, consecutive free throws from Brunson and a layup from Brunson put the Knicks ahead by two with only 4.1 seconds remaining. Following a timeout, Alexander received the inbound pass from Giddey, promptly turned around, and sank the 15-foot jumper for the game-winner, sealing the victory just as Brunson’s last-second shot missed its mark.
Leading the Charge
Alexander finished with the second-highest points total for the Thunder, contributing 19 points. Jalen Williams led the team in scoring with 33 points, while Giddey recorded a triple-double with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 12 assists. However, the team’s center, Horford, struggled, scoring only 5 points and grabbing 5 rebounds on 2-for-8 shooting.
Thunder’s Victory and Playoff Bound
The Thunder’s victory over the Knicks not only secured their playoff berth but also marked their return to the postseason for the first time since the 2020-21 season.
Alexander’s Winning Jumper
Aside from Alexander’s game-winning shot, Giddey’s contribution was instrumental in the Thunder’s victory. He scored 16 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and dished out 12 assists, recording his 10th career triple-double. Of note, three of these triple-doubles have come against the Knicks, the most against any team.
Williams’ Dominance
Williams’ 33-point performance was pivotal for the Thunder’s success, while Alexander’s winning shot added 19 points to the team’s tally.
Brunson’s Efforts for the Knicks
Despite Brunson’s 30-point effort, the Knicks couldn’t secure the win. McBride added 19 points, while DiVincenzo scored 15. Hartenstein contributed 17 points and 12 rebounds, and Hart added 13 points and 15 rebounds.
Conclusion
With Alexander’s clutch shot and the Thunder’s victory, they reaffirm their position as a top contender in the Western Conference as they head into the playoffs. (Panalo999)