Overview
- Oklahoma City improved to 30-5 with a fourth straight win, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 30 points and Chet Holmgren’s 15 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks.
- Stephen Curry missed the game with a sprained left ankle from Wednesday’s win, Jimmy Butler was out sick, and Draymond Green rested on the front end of a back-to-back.
- Golden State also held out De’Anthony Melton as he is not yet cleared for back-to-backs and scratched Jonathan Kuminga with lower back soreness.
- The national broadcast on Prime Video refocused attention on the NBA’s policy limiting star rest in such games, with reports noting possible fines if absences are ruled illegitimate.
- Coach Steve Kerr said he expects Green to play Saturday against the Jazz and expressed hope Curry and Butler will be available, calling the 37-point loss a one-off.