The Oklahoma City Thunder won their third straight game Saturday night, remaining undefeated to open the 2025–26 season. Dealing with multiple injuries early in the year, many wondered whether the defending champions would come out strong. They certainly have. After surviving back-to-back double-overtime battles in their first two contests, Oklahoma City handled the Atlanta Hawks with ease in their third outing. A dominant 39–25 third quarter allowed the Thunder to cruise to a 17-point victory.
Last year’s NBA MVP and Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered another steady performance, scoring 30 points to go along with five rebounds and five assists. Chet Holmgren, however, stole the scoring spotlight, leading the team with 31 points and 11 rebounds to record a double-double. Holmgren was active defensively as well, adding three steals and protecting the rim throughout the night.
Outside of their star duo, only two other Thunder players reached double figures in scoring. Isaiah Hartenstein contributed 14 points, while second-year guard Ajay Mitchell continued his impressive start off the bench, also finishing with 14 points. In total, Holmgren and Gilgeous-Alexander combined for 61 of the team’s 117 points, accounting for just over 52% of Oklahoma City’s offensive production.
The Thunder remain without their No. 2 scorer Jalen Williams, who continues to recover from a hand injury. The team is also missing veteran guard Alex Caruso, who has entered concussion protocol after playing in the season opener. When those pieces return, head coach Mark Daigneault will expect a more balanced scoring distribution.
Oklahoma City will have Sunday off before continuing its road trip Monday against Anthony Davis and the Dallas Mavericks, as the Thunder look to stay perfect in their quest for back-to-back titles.
More NBA news: