Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Just Dismantled the Suns in a Four-Game Sweep and the Thunder Aren't Slowing Down

The Oklahoma City Thunder are running through the first round like nobody can stop them. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 31 points and dished eight assists Monday night as the top-seeded Thunder finished off a ruthless four-game sweep of the Phoenix Suns with a 131-122 victory. This is the third straight year Oklahoma City has swept their way through the opening Western Conference series, and they're looking downright scary heading into the second round.

The Thunder Put It Together When It Mattered

It wasn't just Gilgeous-Alexander carrying the load. Chet Holmgren was a monster on both ends with 24 points and 12 boards. Ajay Mitchell chipped in 22 points and six assists, while Isaiah Hartenstein added 18 points and 12 rebounds off the bench. Alex Caruso came off the bench to score 14 and drill four three-pointers. Mitchell and Caruso each knocked down four from deep as Oklahoma City's spacing and ball movement wore down the Suns' defense.

The Suns Are In Real Trouble

Phoenix's offense couldn't get enough stops when they needed them. Devin Booker scored 24, Dillon Brooks had 23, and Jalen Green added 23, but it still wasn't enough. The real problem: the Suns have been swept in the first round for the second straight playoff appearance. They also got swept back in 2024. Even worse, Phoenix has now lost 10 consecutive playoff games dating back to 2023. That's not a blip. That's a crisis.

What's Next

The Thunder will face either the Los Angeles Lakers or Houston Rockets in the second round. After dispatching the Suns with such efficiency, Oklahoma City looks like the team nobody wants to see in May.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.