Thunder clinch Northwest Division with 133-100 victory
The Oklahoma City Thunder secured the Northwest Division title by defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 133-100 at home on Wednesday. Aaron Wiggins led the Thunder with 26 points, while Jaylin Williams recorded his second career triple-double, scoring 19 points, grabbing 17 rebounds, and providing 11 assists. Despite missing several key players, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, the Thunder dominated the game from the start. They quickly took an early lead, scoring the first 10 points. Oklahoma City had a strong first quarter, netting 42 points and making seven three-pointers. The Thunder never trailed in the game and maintained a solid lead throughout, stretching it to as much as 41 points. Isaiah Joe and Chet Holmgren contributed 21 and 19 points, respectively, while Branden Carlson added a career-high 16 points. For the 76ers, Quentin Grimes was the top scorer with 28 points, and Justin Edwards chipped in 19 points. Philadelphia has struggled lately, losing 17 of their last 20 games. With this victory, the Thunder improved to 57-12 and are on track to clinch the top seed in the Western Conference. The team’s recent success is important, as it could also impact the 76ers' future, since their first-round pick would go to the Thunder if it does not land in the top six.