The Oklahoma City Thunder are proving their critics wrong by showcasing consistent brilliance throughout the season, as highlighted by analyst Skip Bayless following their recent Game 4 victory against the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Semifinal.

By the Numbers
  • Oklahoma City Thunder won 57 games, the most in the West.
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored an impressive 34 points with 8 rebounds in a standout performance.
  • Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving combined for almost 17 fewer points compared to their series against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Yes, But

The efficiency and offensive contributions of other players have decreased due to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's increased production, raising concerns about team balance.

State of Play
  • Oklahoma City Thunder leads the series against the Dallas Mavericks and has been successful in protecting the ball.
  • The team's playoff inexperience has not been a significant issue, showcasing resilience and determination.
What's Next

If the rest of OKC can improve their offensive performance and distribution, they have a solid chance of advancing to the Western Conference Finals; however, a sudden shift in strategy against the Mavericks poses risks.

Bottom Line

Oklahoma City Thunder's strong performance, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, presents a promising outlook for the team, but maintaining balance and offensive efficiency remains crucial for success in the upcoming games.