Overview
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hit two free throws with 2.3 seconds left in double overtime to secure Oklahoma City’s 125-124 win following a championship ring ceremony and banner unveiling.
- In his Houston debut back in OKC, Kevin Durant scored 23 but was booed, missed a key free throw late in regulation and fouled Gilgeous-Alexander on the deciding play; he reportedly signed a two-year, $90 million extension this week.
- Alperen Şengün starred for the Rockets with 39 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists in the narrow loss.
- Golden State beat the Lakers 119-109 with Jimmy Butler scoring 31, Stephen Curry adding 23 and Jonathan Kuminga contributing 17, as Luka Dončić posted 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists for Los Angeles without the injured LeBron James.
- Analysts highlight an unusually open Eastern Conference shaped by injuries and roster limits, positioning continuity-first teams such as the Cavaliers and Knicks as early favorites.