Overview
- Oklahoma City crushed Phoenix 138-89 to improve to 24-1, tying the 2015-16 Warriors for the fastest 25-game start as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 28 and Chet Holmgren added 24.
- The Thunder’s defense held the Suns to 39.3% shooting, forced 21 turnovers that became 34 points, and extended their franchise-record win streak to 16.
- San Antonio eliminated the Lakers 132-119 without Victor Wembanyama, led by Stephon Castle’s 30 points and buoyed by a 36-23 free-throw edge, 17-of-38 three-point shooting, and strong bench production.
- Saturday’s semifinal at T-Mobile Arena pairs the Thunder with the Spurs, while the Knicks and Magic have already advanced on the Eastern side of the bracket.
- Phoenix played without Devin Booker (groin) and Jalen Green, and Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said Wembanyama had a very good day and could be available in Las Vegas.