OKC Thunder dominant regular season shows in record-breaking game 1 vs Grizzlies

Drew Bishop

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OKC Thunder dominant regular season shows in record-breaking game 1 vs Grizzlies image

The Oklahoma City Thunder had the most double-digit wins (54) in NBA regular season history. They had the highest average margin of victory (12.9) in NBA history. 

But could they transition that same dominance into the playoffs?

After defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 131-80 in their playoff opener, the answer to that question is a resounding yes.

The 51-point win is the biggest margin of victory in a game 1 in NBA playoff history. The Thunder led by as much as 56 in the closing minutes, threatening the all-time playoff margin of victory at 58. 

MORE: NBA largest playoff victory margins: How many teams have won by 50?

Perhaps the scariest part of the victory was that it wasn't about the Thunder's star power or a barrage of three's. OKC's leading scorer was Andrew Wiggins with 21 points in 26 minutes. MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ended 4-13 shooting from the field with 15 points.

Instead, it was unselfish passing, stout defense, and transition opportunities that set up the Easter obliteration. 

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It was hardly ever in doubt with a 32-point lead at halftime and a 10-0 run to open the second half. 

It was also the largest playoff win in team history, an impressive feat for a franchise that has featured Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook.

To be fair to the Grizzlies, they had played two games already this week in the play-in tournament, while the Thunder have had the one seed clinched for weeks. 

Oklahoma City isn't supposed to worry about that though. They came out and handled business, sending a statement to the rest of the league.

Whether it's the regular season or postseason, the Thunder are one of the best teams ever at winning with authority. 

Drew Bishop

Drew Bishop is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. After graduating from the Klein College of Media and Communication at Temple University, he worked in local media in Sandusky, Ohio at BCSN and the Sandusky Register, freelancing as a reporter, broadcast director and play-by-play commentator for high school sports. He then moved on to KRIS 6 News where he serves as a producer in the news department.