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2h ago

Thunder Move to 13-1 With Hornets Win, Intensifying Record-Chase Buzz

Relentless defense plus unusual depth keep Oklahoma City on a record-chase pace despite injuries.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - NOVEMBER 11: Isaiah Hartenstein #55, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2, and Chet Holmgren #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder share a laugh on the bench during the second half against the Golden State Warriors at Paycom Center on November 11, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - OCTOBER 9: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets handles the ball in front of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half of the preseason game at Paycom Center on October 9, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)
The Athletic: Are the Thunder on track to have the best title defense ever?
Thunder guard Jalen Williams (8), center Chet Holmgren (7), and guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) talk while sitting on the bench during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Paycom Center

Overview

  • Oklahoma City beat Charlotte 109-96 for its fifth straight victory, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 33 points in 29 minutes and Chet Holmgren’s 25.
  • The defending champions now sit at 13-1 with the NBA’s best record and a league-leading defensive rating reported around 104–105.
  • Jalen Williams has yet to play this season as the Thunder continue to cover absences; Lu Dort returned from an upper trap strain, and Alex Caruso exited with right hand soreness.
  • Sportsbooks and analysts are floating a run at 70-plus wins, with FOX Sports listing +1800 odds for Oklahoma City to reach 74 or more, though pursuit of records remains a question.
  • The Thunder extended their dominance with 23 straight wins over Eastern Conference teams and a 22-2 mark in their last 24 road games, while Gilgeous-Alexander’s 20-plus scoring streak reached 86.