Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder Rout Mavericks 132-111

Merlin sees the Thunder rip through the Mavericks 132-111, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander pouring in 33 points, five rebounds and six assists as OKC improved to 22-1 and a league-best mark. Dallas fell to 8-16; Cooper Flagg scored 16 but offered limited impact elsewhere, and fans blasted the Mavericks after starters sat with 7:44 left while Oklahoma City cruised to a 24-point fourth-quarter lead and a perfect 11-0 home record. Merlin knows this matters: the Thunder’s balance and home dominance turn a hot start into a credible title whisper, and SGA’s steady ceiling strengthens an MVP storyline. For Dallas, Flagg’s flashes are promising, but the Mavericks need veteran support and effort on consecutive nights if they hope to stop the slide.