However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emerged as the hero in the final moments. The MVP contender propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to a hard-fought 94-92 victory over the Pelicans, marking what many consider the standout Game 1 of the weekend across the league. Hosting their first playoff game in five years at the Paycom Center on Sunday night, the Thunder became the eighth home team to secure a win in their playoff opener over the past two days, completing a rare clean sweep for the first time since 2013.
Despite initially pulling ahead in the third quarter, the Thunder encountered offensive struggles in the fourth, enduring a stretch of over five minutes without a field goal. Seizing the opportunity, the Pelicans launched a dominant 18-6 run to erase a double-digit deficit and reclaim the lead after trailing for much of the second half.
In a pivotal moment, Gilgeous-Alexander broke the Thunder's scoring drought with a crucial jumper, knotting the game with just 90 seconds remaining. Subsequently, after Chet Holmgren recorded his fifth block of the night, Gilgeous-Alexander converted an incredible and-one jumper from the lane on the ensuing possession. Although CJ McCollum managed to halt the Pelicans' scoring drought with a mid-range jumper, his last-second attempt at a game-winner fell short, securing the Thunder's two-point victory with one final defensive stand.
Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge for the Thunder with 28 points, six rebounds, and four assists, despite failing to connect on any of his three attempts from beyond the arc. Jalen Williams contributed 19 points and seven rebounds, while Holmgren registered 15 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks.
Looking ahead, while the absence of Leonard was somewhat anticipated due to his lack of recent practice and game time, the Clippers displayed cohesion and intensity in his absence. Harden's improved aggressiveness, following a post-All-Star break slump, boded well for the team's performance. Although Leonard's absence was not an ideal scenario, signs pointing to it were evident, including his limited practice and game appearances leading up to the series opener. Despite these challenges, the Clippers demonstrated resilience and focus, setting a promising tone for the series ahead.
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