Thunder Beat Wizards, Extend Winning Streak

The Oklahoma City Thunder have opened the season among the West’s strongest teams, extending their winning streak with a nearly 40-point rout of Washington to improve to 8-2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 30 points with nine assists in 29 minutes, while Jared McCain followed a slump with consecutive strong performances. The wins have come amid significant injuries, making the NBA Cup stretch a test of whether Oklahoma City’s depth and defensive identity can hold up without several regulars. The Thunder also added Nique Clifford from Sacramento for two future second-round picks, waiving Dalen Terry to make room. Their contrast with Denver—whose established core has looked fatigued—underscores how Oklahoma City has sustained its intensity since winning the championship.