The Oklahoma City Thunder extended their early-season momentum Saturday with a 13-point road win over the Charlotte Hornets, securing their fifth straight victory. The reigning NBA champions improved to 13-1, continuing their dominant start while notching their ninth double-digit win of the season. As has been the case throughout the year, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 33 points, seven assists and two steals. Chet Holmgren contributed 25 points and eight rebounds, and Isaiah Hartenstein added a 12-point, 12-rebound double-double.
Oklahoma City remains atop a highly competitive Western Conference and will face the struggling New Orleans Pelicans on Monday night. The Pelicans enter the matchup at 2-11, looking to snap out of an early-season slide.
The Thunder received encouraging news ahead of the game regarding guard Alex Caruso. While Lu Dort returned from a five-game absence Saturday, Oklahoma City’s injury challenges continued when Caruso exited after just two minutes against Charlotte due to right hand soreness.
However, according to Thunder insider Brandon Rahbar, Caruso has been upgraded to available for Monday’s matchup. Jaylin Williams has also been cleared to play, leaving Aaron Wiggins and Jalen Williams as the only players ruled out. Caruso’s presence should provide a needed defensive boost, as the veteran guard has been a reliable perimeter stopper and secondary playmaker throughout the season.
Following Monday’s contest, the Thunder will return home to host the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday. That matchup will also mark a reunion with former franchise cornerstone Russell Westbrook, adding another layer of intrigue to a strong early-season stretch for Oklahoma City.
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