Thunder Launch Title Defense with Convincing Victory Over Suns

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a resounding 119-84 win over the Phoenix Suns in Game 1 of their Western Conference playoff series, scoring 25 points. The Thunder's title defense got off to a strong start, with Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren adding 22 and 16 points, respectively. Despite a slow start, Oklahoma City quickly found their rhythm, with a 12-2 surge in the first quarter setting the tone for the rest of the game. The Suns struggled to find their footing, with Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks scoring 23 and 18 points, respectively, but the team shot a dismal 34.9% from the field. In another playoff matchup, Jayson Tatum made a triumphant return to the playoffs, scoring 25 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists as the Boston Celtics dominated the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91. The Celtics, led by Tatum and Jaylen Brown, never trailed and built a 35-point lead, with coach Joe Mazzulla giving minutes to 12 players. The 76ers, missing Joel Embiid, struggled to keep pace, with Tyrese Maxey scoring 21 points and eight assists.