Thunder lean on Gilgeous-Alexander’s 42 to take 2-1 lead over Suns
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PHOENIX — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander poured in a playoff career-high 42 points and dished eight assists, powering the Oklahoma City Thunder to a convincing Game 3 victory over the Phoenix Suns and a 2-1 advantage in their first-round series.
The All-NBA guard scored from all three levels, mixing step-back three-pointers with mid-range jumpers and frequent trips to the free-throw line. Only Russell Westbrook has ever produced more points in a Thunder postseason contest.
“He’s got great poise and composure,” head coach Mark Daigneault said after the win. “He feels agency over his performance, so he’s never going to let anything or anybody get in the way of his best performance.”
Through the first three games, Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 34.7 points and 8.0 rebounds heading into Monday’s Game 4.
Mitchell steps in for Williams
With Jalen Williams sidelined by a hamstring injury, rookie guard Ajay Mitchell started Game 3. The first-year player shot 5-for-20 but was praised for his aggressiveness. “Winners fail and losers hide. He wasn’t hiding,” Daigneault said.
Caruso shakes off boos
Veteran guard Alex Caruso was met with boos after Suns star Devin Booker suggested Caruso prompted a technical foul against him in Game 2. Unfazed, Caruso disrupted passing lanes and targeted defensive mismatches. “My mind, especially during the postseason, is always running and looking for different ways to take advantage of the game,” he said.
McCain provides key bench minutes
Reserve guard Jared McCain scored seven points on eight attempts but delivered a crucial 12-minute stretch in the second quarter, helping Oklahoma City maintain its lead while Gilgeous-Alexander rested. His effort earned an A- grade in post-game evaluations.
Game 4 is scheduled for Monday in Phoenix, where the Thunder will try to extend their series lead without Williams.
Source: Hoops Rumors
