But as much as we gloss over sexy net ratings and points scored or allowed per 100 possessions, the truth is the Thunder are just better when it matters. They run harder—a 106.99 pace rating compared to a 101 during the game, and more importantly just show a heightened level of mental toughness. Yes, winning in the clutch boils down to efficiency battles, but they’re also about IQ. About chemistry. About focus. And guts. In all facets, the Thunder held an advantage. “They played a little bit better than we did down the stretch,” D’Antoni said. “We had our looks, we didn’t make them. We turned the ball over a couple of times. That hurt us, but I thought both teams had a chance to win, we just didn’t do it.”