OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 31 points and Josh Giddey’s triple-double, demolished the Portland Trail Blazers 139-77 on Thursday night. This staggering 62-point victory ties the fifth-largest margin in NBA history.
The Thunder eclipsed their previous record for the largest win, a 45-point margin set in the 2012-13 season. This triumph elevates them to tie with the Minnesota Timberwolves for the best record in the Western Conference at 26-11.
Reflecting on the Thunder’s historic loss by 73 points to Memphis in 2021, Gilgeous-Alexander spoke about using that defeat as motivation to avoid such embarrassment again. The win over the Blazers marks a significant turnaround for the team.
Portland, enduring their second-worst loss in history, struggled throughout the game. Coach Chauncey Billups admitted the night was a complete failure for the Trail Blazers, who shot a dismal 27.7% from the field.
For the Thunder, Jalen Williams contributed 21 points, while Chet Holmgren added 19. Giddey, with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists, achieved his ninth career triple-double. The team’s remarkable 57% shooting accuracy and 41 assists on 53 field goals underscored their dominance.
The Thunder’s start was particularly impressive, given they had returned home at 3 a.m. on Thursday after a win in Miami the previous night. Coach Mark Daigneault praised the team’s readiness and ability to maintain the lead effectively.
Portland’s Anfernee Simons managed 14 points, and Scoot Henderson scored 13, but it was not enough to counter the Thunder’s onslaught. A notable moment was Holmgren’s unconventional basket during a 22-2 Thunder run early in the game.
The Trail Blazers’ frustration became evident as both Shaedon Sharpe and Coach Billups received technical fouls before halftime. The Thunder continued to extend their lead in the second half, going into the fourth quarter with a massive 118-56 advantage.
Looking forward, the Trail Blazers will face Minnesota on Friday, while the Thunder are set to host Orlando on Saturday.
