The Oklahoma City Thunder celebrated clinching the top seed in the NBA with a dominating 141-106 victory over the short-handed Charlotte Hornets. The Thunder established control early, racing out to a 34-14 lead by the end of the first quarter, maintaining a commanding advantage throughout the game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 30 points, showing his prowess by scoring effectively both inside and from beyond the arc. This performance underscores the Thunder's readiness for the playoffs, demonstrating depth as eight players scored in double digits, while the Hornets struggled to keep pace without their key contributors.

Despite a brief rally from Charlotte in the third quarter, the Thunder responded decisively with an 18-0 run to cement the victory. The Hornets found themselves at a tactical disadvantage, unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities without a true playmaker. The Thunder's offensive fluidity, evidenced by 29 assists on 54 field goals, further showcased their capabilities as title contenders. With the regular season winding down, this win serves as a significant momentum builder heading into the playoffs.