Picking up where they left off in the Western Conference Semifinals, the ultra-competitive matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks lived up to the hype on City Night. Despite missing Luka Dončić, Dallas found a way to prevail, leaving Thunder fans with a sense of déjà vu, winning 121-119.
When I saw Dončić listed as OUT for Sunday night’s game, my confidence in OKC securing their 12th win of the season actually wavered. Why? Because I knew the Mavericks would play better without him—not because they’re a better team overall, but because their offense becomes more fluid without their Slovenian star. This was especially true tonight, with Kyrie Irving leading the charge.
There are fewer than five players in the league who can effectively shut down Dončić, and at the top of that list is Lu Dort. Time and time again, I’ve watched Dort defend Dončić out of his rhythm and, frankly, out of his mind. I anticipated a similar outcome tonight. But with Luka sidelined, Irving was free to dictate the game’s tempo—and everyone, including the Thunder, was forced to play at his pace.
So, why did OKC lose this game?
It wasn’t because PJ Washington exploded for a season-high performance in the first 17 minutes. It wasn’t even because Dallas played more freely without Dončić. For the first time since Chet Holmgren’s return from injury, size proved to be the Thunder’s kryptonite.
Adding to the challenge, Alex Caruso missed his third consecutive game. Had he been available, he likely would have been tasked with slowing down Washington.
The rebounding disparity told the story: Dallas out-rebounded OKC 53-29, including a staggering 19 offensive rebounds compared to OKC’s 6. Those second chances led to 24 points for Dallas, while the Thunder managed just 7.
Oklahoma City did well to take care of the ball, committing only 8 turnovers, which led to 8 Mavericks points. However, Kyrie’s signature late-game threes, combined with a sluggish final push from OKC, sealed the Thunder’s fate. The game’s ending felt eerily similar to Game 6 of last year’s Western Conference Semifinals.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way for OKC with 36 points, 2 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 blocks. Jalen Williams caught fire in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 of his 27 points late, while Dort added 18 points, shooting 4-of-8 from deep.
With this loss, the Thunder fall to 11-3 as they prepare to face the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday.
It was an exciting, nail-biting game. What i saw was a Thunder team that never gives up!!! Great recapped details! I love The Thunder! ❤️