Gilgeous-Alexander Scores 43 as Thunder Edge Cavaliers 117-112

Can one superstar carry an injury-hit team? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 43 points on 14-of-35 shooting and added eight assists as Oklahoma City beat Cleveland 117-112 on the road Monday. His go-ahead stepback three-pointer with about 32 seconds left broke a tie late in a tight finish. The game was decided late.

Ajay Mitchell contributed 20 points and Isaiah Hartenstein grabbed 14 rebounds, helping the Thunder improve to 5-2. The win came despite injuries to Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace and others. Cleveland was also without Peyton Watson, leaving both rotations stretched during a competitive game. Several players missed the game for both teams.

The teams meet again on Wednesday in Oklahoma City, giving Cleveland an immediate chance to respond. For the Thunder, the result is a reminder that Gilgeous-Alexander can keep the team near the top of the standings while key teammates recover, and it provides momentum before the rematch. Fans will be watching how both teams handle those absences over the coming weeks of the season.