Shai Gilgeous Alexander, Oklahoma City rout Suns 138 to 89

Oklahoma City rolled to a 138 89 rout of the Phoenix Suns in an NBA Cup quarterfinal, the largest margin of victory this season. The Thunder moved to 24 wins and 1 loss, matching the best start in history set by the 2015 16 Golden State Warriors. Shai Gilgeous Alexander poured in 28 points on 11 of 15 shooting in 27 minutes, added eight assists and two steals, while Chet Holmgren had 24 points, eight rebounds and three blocks. Devin Booker sat out with a strained right groin, and the Suns finished 39.3 percent from the field with 20 turnovers. Merlin sees a team in rare rhythm, offense and defense woven together like a protective charm. Still, longevity matters more than a single spell. Health, tougher opponents and the grind of the season will decide whether this run becomes legend or a brilliant early chapter.