The Oklahoma City Thunder put on an offensive clinic Friday night, demolishing the Utah Jazz 145-111 behind spectacular performances from Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe. The Thunder’s dynamic duo combined for 67 points, with Wiggins contributing 35 and Joe adding 32, including a career-high 10 three-pointers.
Oklahoma City’s victory, improving their record to 67-14, was powered by a strong first quarter where they set a season-high 46 points.
Despite being without MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who missed his second consecutive game with a left shin contusion, the Thunder showcased their depth and shooting prowess. Joe, who had struggled from long range in recent games, finished 10 of 14 from beyond the arc, providing an explosive spark.
In the absence of Gilgeous-Alexander, Jaylin Williams stepped up with a near triple-double, recording 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. His all-around performance was crucial in helping Oklahoma City extend their road win total to 31, which is second only to Boston.
The Jazz (17-64) were unable to keep pace, never leading at any point during the game. Svi Mykhailiuk led Utah with 27 points, and Brice Sensabaugh added 25. However, Utah’s defense was porous, allowing the Thunder to shoot 56% from the field and 45.3% from three-point range.
The Jazz managed to trim a 12-point deficit to 48-44 early in the second quarter after Keyonte George capped a 10-2 run with free throws. However, the Thunder quickly regained control, building their lead to as much as 26 points. Joe’s buzzer-beating three-pointer at the end of the first half was the exclamation point on Oklahoma City’s dominance, giving them a 73-58 lead at the break.
Utah’s struggles continued in the second half, as the Thunder’s defense shut down any attempts at a comeback. The Jazz shot just 37.9% from the field and 27% from three-point range, with no player able to make a significant impact offensively.
Oklahoma City finished with 24 three-pointers on the night, proving once again why they are one of the most lethal teams from beyond the arc. Their efficient scoring and deep rotation allowed them to dominate every aspect of the game.
