Shorthanded? No Problem. Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder Dominate in Milwaukee
On paper, the Oklahoma City Thunder looked like they were walking into a mismatch in Milwaukee. Down to just eight players on standard contracts - and eventually seven after Ajay Mitchell exited early with a hip contusion - the Thunder were missing key pieces up and down the roster.
But none of that mattered once the game tipped off. What unfolded was a statement win, a 122-102 blowout of the Bucks that showcased resilience, depth, and the brilliance of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Let’s start with the obvious: Gilgeous-Alexander was electric. This wasn’t just a great night - it was one of the most efficient performances of his career.
He dropped 40 points on an absurd 16-of-19 shooting, missing just three shots all night. That kind of efficiency is rare at any level, let alone against a team like Milwaukee.
And he wasn’t just scoring - SGA was orchestrating the offense with surgical precision, racking up 11 assists (eight in the first half) and adding seven rebounds for good measure. He controlled the game like a maestro, dictating pace and punishing the Bucks at every level of the floor.
But this wasn’t a one-man show.
Before his night was cut short, rookie Ajay Mitchell came out firing. He scored 12 of his 18 points in the first quarter and, for a stretch, was outscoring the entire Bucks team by himself.
His early burst helped OKC build a 20-point lead in the opening frame - a lead they never relinquished. It was a glimpse of what Mitchell can bring when he’s in rhythm, and had he stayed healthy, he was on pace for a career night.
Kenrich Williams continues to be one of those glue guys every contender needs. Coming off the bench, he poured in 18 points and brought his usual brand of hustle and smart, physical defense. He’s not flashy, but he’s reliable - and in a game where depth was tested, Williams delivered.
Lu Dort added 13 points, including three makes from deep, while Chet Holmgren chipped in with 10 points, seven rebounds, and a couple of assists. Holmgren didn’t need to dominate the box score - his presence alone continues to stretch defenses and offer rim protection, even on quieter nights.
What really stood out was how the Thunder attacked. Instead of relying on the three-ball - which has been a big part of their offensive identity - they leaned into physicality and midrange efficiency.
Oklahoma City took 11 more two-point shots than Milwaukee and dominated the paint despite missing two of their main rotation centers. They also won the rebounding battle, which speaks volumes about the collective effort and commitment to crashing the glass.
From the opening tip, this game was all Thunder. Milwaukee never led - not for a single second. OKC controlled the tempo, dictated the terms, and played like the deeper, more cohesive team, even with a skeleton crew.
This win wrapped up a four-game road trip and capped off a strong two-week stretch where the Thunder have clearly shaken off their holiday slump. They’re back to playing their brand of basketball - fast, fearless, and fundamentally sound.
Next up? A home tilt against the Indiana Pacers - the same squad they topped in last year’s NBA Finals. With momentum on their side and confidence running high, the Thunder are looking more and more like the team no one wants to face.