Here are five thoughts from the Mavericks’ 117-95 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals.
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren dunks the ball past Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford during the first half of Game 1 of an NBA basketball second-round playoff series on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, in Oklahoma City.Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 29 points, nine rebounds and nine assists for the Thunder while making a living at the free throw line. He was aggressive with his drives into the paint and drew contact early and often.
Gafford had a size advantage on Chet Holmgren, which led to more opportunities to post up the Thunder’s rookie big man. He also used his athleticism, not just on the offensive end, but to deter and reject shots inside the paint.Holmgren held his own for Oklahoma City with 19 points, seven rebounds and three blocks. Dallas will need several more performances like this from Gafford in order to have a chance in this series.
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