The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their impressive run, securing a hard-fought victory against the Orlando Magic. This win marks our sixth consecutive triumph, pushing our record to an impressive 5-0 against Eastern Conference teams during this stretch.
Despite the absence of key players like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner for the Magic, and Jalen Suggs not being at full strength, Orlando put up a valiant fight. The Thunder dominated the first half, building a substantial 23-point lead. However, the Magic showed resilience in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to just three points at one stage.
Our ability to refocus and tighten up defensively in the fourth quarter was crucial. We stopped settling for three-pointers and relentlessly attacked the basket, which helped us pull away and secure the win.
This victory is particularly significant given the challenging schedule we’ve faced. Coming off the NBA Cup championship game against the Milwaukee Bucks, we had to quickly regroup and travel across time zones for this back-to-back set. The team’s resilience and adaptability have been on full display.
Isaiah Hartenstein’s Impact
Isaiah Hartenstein continues to be a game-changer for us. His presence in the lineup has been transformative, with the team now boasting a 20-2 record when we have a healthy seven-footer on the floor. Hartenstein’s contribution goes beyond just his size; his ability to finish around the rim, set effective screens, and make smart passes has added a new dimension to our offense.
Jalen Williams’ Offensive Struggles
While Jalen Williams had a strong fourth quarter, his overall offensive performance was a bit concerning. He started the game 2-for-10 from the field, struggling against physical defenders who disrupted his rhythm. This is an area Williams needs to improve, particularly in initiating contact and creating space for himself. However, it’s important to note that he still contributed in other areas, dishing out seven assists and playing solid defense.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Thunder’s performance against the Magic, tune into the Locked On Thunder podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Thunder Podcast:
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s masterful mid-range performance
• Aaron Wiggins’ impactful 30-minute stint
• Alex Caruso’s improving three-point shooting and its importance for the team
