NBA Playoffs Progression: Thunder Secure Semifinals Spot in Las Vegas, Facing Rockets Next
NBA Playoffs Progression: Thunder Secure Semifinals Spot in Las Vegas, Facing Rockets Next
The NBA Cup's second period has induced cutthroat competition and substantial actions across the league. The Oklahoma City Thunder managed a 3-1 record in the Preliminary Stage, advancing as one of eight teams within the NBA to progress to the Knockout Rounds.
Transitioning from there, Oklahoma City played a crucial game on Tuesday versus the Dallas Mavericks. The victor was slated to advance to Las Vegas for the NBA Cup's Semifinal round, while the vanquished would bow out of the tournament.
This encounter was substantial for various reasons. First and foremost, Dallas clinched a 4-2 victory against the Thunder in the second round of the playoffs last season, ultimately reaching the NBA Finals before succumbing to the Boston Celtics. Moreover, these two teams collided earlier in the 2024-25 campaign, with the Mavs securing a two-point triumph.
After succumbing to the Mavericks in the playoffs and then losing the initial encounter between these teams this season, Oklahoma City arrived at Tuesday’s NBA Cup game with an elevated sense of urgency. With a visit to Las Vegas and extra prize money on the line, the Thunder delivered a persuasive win by a final score of 118-104.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander excelled in this match, notching 39 points in addition to eight rebounds and five assists. Conversely, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving had a challenging night for Dallas, amassing a combined 33 points from 29 attempts. Isaiah Hartenstein also proved to be a game-changer, making a significant impact following the Thunder's struggle in the paint against Dallas in November's matchup. At the time, the Thunder lacked a healthy center in their roster.
Pursuing this victory, OKC secured a ticket to the NBA Cup Semifinals in Las Vegas, with a matchup against the Houston Rockets scheduled for Saturday.
The Thunder and Rockets faced off less than two weeks prior, resulting in a close 3-point Houston victory. This time around, Oklahoma City aims to exact retribution, just as it did against Dallas on Tuesday.
A triumph in Saturday’s contest against the Rockets would propel the Thunder to the NBA Cup Finals. Intriguingly, that game isn't factored into the team's regular season record, given it counts as an additional 83rd game. Regardless, it serves as another valuable learning experience for the Thunder and a game of high stakes, which is crucial for a young team such as OKC with aspirations of reaching the NBA Finals this season and claiming the championship in June. Moreover, players on the team that conquers the NBA Cup pocket $514,971 each.
Before Oklahoma City has the chance to make that happen, Saturday’s clash against the Rockets must end in a victory. Although Oklahoma City is favored in this matchup, it will be a fiercely contested game that could sway in either direction. If the Thunder can secure the win, the team will stand at 20-5 on the season and further fortify its position as the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference standings.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, having advanced to the NBA Cup's Knockout Rounds with a 3-1 record, will face the Houston Rockets in the Semifinals. This will be a rematch, as the Rockets defeated the Thunder by a narrow margin in their previous encounter. The Thunder seeks revenge and aims to advance further, as victory against the Rockets could earn them a spot in the NBA Cup Finals and a substantial $514,971 prize for each player.
In the NBA Cup bracket, the Thunder's next game against the Rockets is crucial, as it isn't included in their regular season record, but still counts as an additional game with high stakes. Oklahoma City is currently favored in this matchup but must secure the win to strengthen their position as the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference standings.
The latest NBA cup news highlights that Isaiah Hartenstein played a significant role in the Thunder's win against the Dallas Mavericks, providing a much-needed impact in the paint. The Houston Rockets, known for their star players SGA (Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) and James Harden, will face a formidable opponent in the Thunder team, which will be determined to bounce back from their previous loss against the Rockets.
Following their impressive win against the Dallas Mavericks, the Thunder has proven their ability to turn the tables and overcome their opponents. With this newfound momentum, Oklahoma City looks to replicate their success against the Houston Rockets and continue their journey in the NBA cup, with the ultimate goal of winning the championship in June.
The Thunder's recent performance and resilience have been the talk of the league, with NBA cup commentators praising their team spirit and determination. Oklahoma City's success in the tournament has not gone unnoticed, as they continue to push their limits and solidify their position as a force to be reckoned with in the NBA cup competition.