Oklahoma City’s second-quarter surge has put it in command, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell leading the scoring.
At the end of the third quarter, Oklahoma City leads Memphis 98-76, turning a 35-28 first-quarter edge into a 22-point cushion. The Thunder’s 36-21 second quarter created the separation, and the teams traded 27 points apiece in the third. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell have each scored 28, while Jared McCain has added 19 points and four steals. Memphis, ranked fifth in the power index and 6-2, needs a fourth-quarter response against an equally 6-2 Thunder team ranked 11th.
Key Performers
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC): 28 points, 4 assists Ajay Mitchell (OKC): 28 points, 4 assists; +30 Jared McCain (OKC): 19 points, 4 steals