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SGA's 43-Point Barrage: Cavs Can't Stop Thunder Star
5 Nov
Summary
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a season-high 43 points against the Cavaliers.
- Thunder won despite key injuries to Williams, Wallace, and Holmgren.
- Rookie Meleek Thomas impressed in his first start for Cleveland.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 117-112 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, scoring a season-high 43 points. This win came despite the ongoing absence of starters Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, and Chet Holmgren, who are expected to be sidelined for an extended period.
Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson expressed frustration with his team's inability to contain Gilgeous-Alexander, stating that various defensive strategies, including blitzing, switching, and zone, were unsuccessful. Coach Mark Daigneault of the Thunder acknowledged the need for diversified offensive contributions from his depleted lineup.
Veteran Kenrich Williams has stepped into a starting role, significantly increasing his minutes. "He's been able to put on so many different masks for us," Daigneault remarked about Williams' versatility. For Cleveland, rookie forward Meleek Thomas made his debut start, contributing 17 points, five rebounds, and no turnovers, drawing praise from Atkinson for his performance in a crucial game.
