Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a resounding 119-84 victory over the Phoenix Suns in Game 1 of their Western Conference playoff series, scoring 25 points. The Thunder, who are defending their championship title, dominated the game with Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren adding 22 and 16 points respectively. The Suns struggled, with Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks scoring 23 and 18 points, but the team shot a disappointing 34.9% from the field. The Thunder will host Game 2 on Wednesday.
In other playoff action, Jayson Tatum made a strong return from injury, scoring 25 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists as the Boston Celtics thrashed the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91 in their Eastern Conference series. Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama made a record-breaking playoff debut, scoring 35 points as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 111-98 in their Western Conference series.