Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander makes unwanted NBA history after getting thumped by Blazers again appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder failed to exact revenge on the Portland Trail Blazers, losing again on Wednesday, 118-108, at Moda Center in the second game of their back-to-back series.
Advertisement
The Thunder also bowed to the Trail Blazers, 123-103, at the same venue on Tuesday.
Oklahoma City held the lead in the fourth quarter, but it was short-lived. Portland rallied behind Damian Lillard and Deni Avdija to pull the rug out from under the Thunder. Lillard and Avdija combined for 20 points in the final period.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
Gilgeous-Alexander had a game-high 31 points and four rebounds, but he struggled from the field, shooting just 9-of-20, including 0-of-7 from long distance. He also made an unwanted distinction, according to OptaSTATS.
“This is the first time in NBA regular-season history that the reigning MVP lost by double digits to the same team on back-to-back days,” noted OptaSTATS.
Advertisement
SGA had 26 points, eight rebounds, and three assists on Tuesday. He, however, also struggled with his efficiency, going only 8-of-22, including 0-of-4 from long range.
The 28-year-old guard has had to carry a heavy load amid the serious injuries of Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Cason Wallace, who are all out for multiple weeks.
The Thunder were on a four-game winning streak before getting swept by the Trail Blazers.
Jared McCain cut Portland’s lead to five points, 110-105, after sinking a three-pointer with 1:19 left in the fourth quarter. Lillard, however, shut the door on OKC in the ensuing possession with a pair of free throws.
Advertisement
The Thunder will try to bounce back on Friday against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Related: Thunder’s Mark Daigneault sounds off on factor that led to second straight loss to Blazers
Related: Thunder’s Mark Daigneault finds silver lining after 20-point loss to Blazers
