The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their dominant season with a 121-109 victory over the Toronto Raptors at Paycom Center. The win not only strengthened their position as the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference but also marked the return of Chet Holmgren, who had been sidelined for nearly three months due to a right iliac wing fracture.
With this victory, the Thunder improved to 41-9 and solidified their place atop the Western Conference standings. Since the start of the new year, they have posted a 15-4 record. Meanwhile, the Raptors struggled once again, falling to 16-36 and sitting at 13th place in the Eastern Conference.
The Oklahoma City Thunder Cruise Past Raptors As Chet Holmgren And Isiah Hartenstein Start Together
Jalen Williams emerged as the top scorer for the Thunder, putting up 27 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his All-Star caliber season with 25 points, six assists, and four rebounds while displaying elite efficiency from the free-throw line, making all 14 of his attempts.
Holmgren contributed modestly with four points, five rebounds, four blocks, and two steals in 22 minutes of action. The game was also notable for marking the first time Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein started together for the Thunder.
Chet Holmgren had 4 blocks and 2 steals in 22 minutes in his first game since November
— 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒆 🌩 (@Three_Cone) February 8, 2025
The best defense in the world just got even better pic.twitter.com/TVjjM5HS8H
Hartenstein had also missed the beginning of the season due to injury, and then Holmgren missed straight 39 games. Meanwhile, Hartenstein finished with 12 points, six rebounds, and two assists in 26 minutes. Andrew Wiggins added 18 points, three rebounds, and two assists, while Isaiah Joe scored 16 points.
Despite the loss, the Raptors had some strong individual performances. Scottie Barnes led the way with 21 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Rookie Gradey Dick contributed 17 points, while Jordan Walter and Chris Boucher each added 12 and 11 points, respectively.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
With the Thunder’s dominance in full effect, they will now turn their attention to their next matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Raptors will look to bounce back when they face the Houston Rockets on Sunday.
