The Oklahoma City Thunder didn’t just beat the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night — they exposed them. Down by 12 in the third quarter at the American Airlines Center, the Thunder unleashed a 39-point explosion that turned a tight game into a statement win: 101-94. It wasn’t pretty, but it was effective. And for the Oklahoma City Thunder, it was their fourth straight victory to open the 2025-2026 NBA season — a perfect 4-0 record, all on the road.
Third Quarter Surge Seals the Deal
The first half was a grind. Dallas, coming off their first win of the season just two nights prior, looked sharper than expected. They led 42-48 at halftime, riding a balanced attack and relentless perimeter defense. But then came the third quarter — and everything changed. The Oklahoma City Thunder went on a 17-2 run in the first six minutes, sparked by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who dropped 17 points in the frame alone. His drives to the rim were unstoppable. His mid-range pull-ups? Unstoppable. By the time the buzzer sounded on the third, the Thunder had flipped a 12-point deficit into a 13-point lead. Dallas never recovered.
The fourth quarter was a different story. The Mavericks clawed back, outscoring OKC 25-14, but it was too little, too late. They cut the lead to three with 1:12 left, but a critical steal by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — followed by a cold-blooded three-pointer from Josh Giddey — sealed it. The final score: 101-94. The Thunder’s scoring breakdown? 28-24, 20-18, 39-27, 14-25. Dallas had no answer for their transition game, and their bench was outscored 31-12.
Oddsmakers Were Wrong — But Not Surprised
Before tip-off, the line had the Thunder as 8.5-point road favorites with a total of 226.5 points. Most analysts expected a high-scoring affair. Even AM1300 The Zone’s AI model predicted a 241.8-point game. Instead, the final tally was 195 — nearly 50 points under the projected total. That’s not a fluke. It’s a defensive statement.
“They didn’t just win,” said former NBA coach and analyst Marcus Johnson on ESPN Radio. “They dictated the pace. They turned it into a half-court war, and Dallas couldn’t handle the physicality. That’s not luck — that’s coaching.”
The betting markets were split. While the Moneyline favored OKC at -334, some experts, including BetUS TV’s Sean Green, argued the Mavericks +8.5 was a trap. “The Thunder don’t blow teams out,” Green said on his October 27 preview. “They win by 5, 7, 10. They’re the ultimate grind-it-out team.” He was right. The final margin? Seven points. The spread? Covered.
A Season-Defining Start for OKC
This win isn’t just about record books. It’s about identity. The Thunder, once seen as a young, promising team, are now playing with the poise of a contender. Their 3-0 road record is the best in the NBA. Their defense ranks top-five in points allowed per 100 possessions. And Shai Gilgeous-Alexander? He’s averaging 31.2 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds — numbers that put him firmly in MVP conversation.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks are reeling. After a promising win over the Pelicans, they’ve lost three straight — all at home. Luka Dončić had 28 points, but shot 8-of-22. Kyrie Irving added 21, but missed two critical free throws in the final minute. Their offense, once elite, looks disjointed. “We’re too reliant on isolation,” said Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd postgame. “We need to move the ball. We need to play faster.”
What’s Next?
The Thunder head to Phoenix on Wednesday to face the Suns — another top Western Conference team. If they win, they’ll be the first team since the 2017 Warriors to start 5-0 on the road. The Mavericks? They host the Warriors on Thursday, desperate to avoid a 1-4 start. The pressure is mounting.
Historically, these teams have been competitive. In the 2024-2025 season, Dallas won three of four against OKC — including two double-digit upsets. But this year feels different. The Thunder have added depth. They’ve improved defensively. And they’re no longer just a team with potential — they’re a team with purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect the Thunder’s playoff chances?
Starting 4-0, especially on the road, gives the Thunder serious momentum. With their defensive efficiency and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s elite play, they’re now considered top-3 contenders in the West. Historically, teams that start 4-0 or better have a 78% chance of making the playoffs — and a 45% chance of reaching the Conference Finals.
Why did the total points fall so far short of projections?
The Thunder slowed the game down, holding Dallas to just 38 points in the first half and forcing 18 turnovers. Their defensive scheme — a mix of zone and aggressive trapping — disrupted Dallas’s rhythm. Computer models overestimated pace, assuming Dallas would revert to their high-octane style. Instead, OKC dictated tempo, turning it into a half-court battle.
Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander really an MVP candidate?
Absolutely. Through four games, he’s averaging 31.2 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds while shooting 51% from the field and 42% from three. He’s also leading the league in clutch scoring (points in the final five minutes of close games). Only Nikola Jokić and Jayson Tatum have better win shares per 48 minutes this season — and neither plays with his level of defensive versatility.
What’s the history between these two teams?
In the 2024-2025 season, Dallas won three of four matchups against Oklahoma City, including two double-digit victories. But this season, the Thunder have clearly taken control. Their defense is better, their depth is deeper, and they’re no longer intimidated by Dallas’s star power. The trend is shifting — and it’s not just about talent. It’s about mindset.
What does this loss mean for the Mavericks’ season?
A 1-4 start is alarming, especially at home. Dallas has struggled with ball movement and defensive rotations. If they don’t fix their half-court offense and bench production by next week, they risk falling out of playoff contention early. Their upcoming game against the Warriors is a must-win — and the pressure on Luka and Kyrie is about to intensify.
Can the Thunder maintain this pace?
They’ve got the roster depth, coaching, and mental toughness. But the schedule gets tougher: Phoenix, Denver, and Golden State in the next 10 days. If they can stay healthy — especially with Chet Holmgren returning from injury soon — they could challenge for the top seed. But the real test isn’t the record. It’s how they respond under pressure.