Game Overview
The Thunder secured a 118-112 win over the Celtics, completing a season series sweep against their formidable rivals. Despite several key players missing from both rosters, the teams engaged in a tightly contested battle for most of the game. The pivotal moments emerged in the fourth quarter when the Thunder managed to create separation and clinch the victory.
Dominance at the Free-Throw Line
The Thunder’s success was significantly aided by their performance at the charity stripe. With 25 of 35 successful attempts, the free throws provided a critical edge over the Celtics, who managed 10 of 12. In the final period, Oklahoma City received 18 trips to the line, a factor that contributed notably to the team’s momentum. The Celtics, showing limited effort to draw fouls, saw only one of their leading players maintain a perfect record from the free-throw line, which contrasted with the Thunder’s consistent production.
Efficiency from Beyond the Arc and Expanded Roles
A closer look at the three-point shooting revealed stark differences between the teams. The Celtics took an aggressive approach with 63 attempts but limited their success to 20 made shots, with several key players struggling from downtown. In contrast, the Thunder completed 13 of 37 attempts, a statistic that proved more efficient given the fewer opportunities. The versatile offensive strategy afforded by the Thunder’s lineup allowed for a more balanced attack. With significant minutes logged by emerging players, a versatile big man stepped into a larger offensive role, exemplifying the team’s deep roster and dynamic approach. This evolution in playing style is a promising sign for future matchups.