SGA drops 40 in 3 quarters, Thunder get revenge on Cavs

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 40 points and eight assists in three quarters to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a blowout 134-114 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Thunder and Cavaliers are now tied for the best record in the league at 34-6. Cleveland previously beat Oklahoma City on Jan. 8 in a back-and-forth contest, ending the Thunder's 15-game winning streak.

Gilgeous-Alexander, who leads in the league in made free throws (7.2) and is second in attempts (8.1) went 5-for-5 from the line in the contest. He said postgame that he didn't need them to be effective offensively.

"When they come, it's a plus, but I don't need 'em." Gilgeous-Alexander said. "I get it however I take it."

Luguentz Dort scored 22 points Thursday, while Jalen Williams added 19 points, six rebounds, five assists, three steals, and two blocks.

The Thunder led by as many as 42 points over the course of the contest and forced 21 turnovers.

Oklahoma City was without centers Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, starting 6-foot-9 forward Jaylin Williams at the five. Rookie big man Branden Carlson added 11 points off the bench to help the Thunder improve their home record to 18-2.

Darius Garland led the Cavaliers with 20 points and nine assists. Donovan Mitchell recorded eight points on 3-for-15 shooting after scoring 11 points in the team's last matchup against the Thunder.