Oklahoma City stopped a skid of three losses in four outings by routing the Philadelphia 76ers 129-104 on Sunday, December 29. The Thunder limited Philadelphia to 42 percent shooting, forced 23 turnovers and turned those mistakes into 31 points.
“We really cranked up the pressure and the help and did so with discipline,” head coach Mark Daigneault told The Oklahoman. “It wasn’t reckless. We made everything hard on them.”
Chet Holmgren Leads the Way
After scoring a combined 31 points over his previous three games, rookie center Chet Holmgren exploded for 29 points, nine rebounds and four blocks. Daigneault praised the 7-footer’s versatility, noting Holmgren “held his own at center” and “changed our team” with rim protection and help defense.
Blue Acquire Zhaire Smith
The organization’s G League affiliate, the Oklahoma City Blue, acquired wing Zhaire Smith from the Texas Legends in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick. Smith, waived by the Dallas Mavericks in mid-October, was a 2018 first-round draft choice. He tallied 24 points, six rebounds and five assists against the South Bay Lakers on Saturday. His early NBA career was interrupted by a broken foot and a severe allergic reaction that required a feeding tube.
Players Embrace Team-First Approach
Veteran guard Luguentz Dort said Thunder players understand the value of sacrificing for the system. “You become more efficient and connect more with the team,” Dort explained. “When it’s been like that, it’s always important to listen to what they want you to do.”
Hartenstein Out Again
Isaiah Hartenstein will not play Monday night against Atlanta because of a left soleus strain, ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported. It is the second time the big man has strained the same calf this season; he missed six contests after first injuring it on Nov. 26.
Source: Hoops Rumors
