Technically speaking, the Oklahoma City Thunder won its game against the Orlando Magic, 118-102. But in reality, this was one of the biggest losses of the season due to the reverse standings implications.
Thanks to a 10-game losing streak, the Thunder were able to make up a lot of ground and essentially lock up top-four lottery odds. The losing streak combined with the fact that the Magic and Detroit Pistons started winning games recently created a real possibility of the Thunder getting important top-three lottery odds. In fact, if the Thunder would’ve lost this game, it would’ve been tied for the second-best lottery odds with the Pistons after Detroit blew out the Atlanta Hawks.
Alas, the Thunder come up short of reaching the elusive top-three lottery odds. Now, that doesn’t mean that it’s over — the Thunder are just one game back from the third spot with nine games left in the regular season. But for the Thunder to be so close to getting top-two lottery odds — even if it’s for one night — and to not get it is a tough pill to swallow for the fanbase who are tank enthusiasts.
In terms of the actual game, the Thunder were able to use a 20-2 run in the second quarter to claw back from a 13-point deficit and the team was able to grow a comfortable lead for the rest of the game. The Thunder were on cruise control for most of the second half and the Magic just continued to brick shots and play sloppy basketball when given the chance to mount a comeback.
The Thunder — who were missing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander due to a sore right ankle — were led by the likes of Tre Mann and Theo Maledon for this win. The Thunder essentially played this game with G League talent and were able to win against an NBA team — even if it’s one as bad as the Magic. Let’s take a look at player grades.