Oklahoma City residents saw a thrilling NBA contest on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, as the Thunder beat the Cavaliers 124‑116 at the Paycom Center. The win came despite the Thunder playing without several key players, underscoring the depth of the team that local fans have come to rely on.
Bleacher Report’s scoring summary shows the Thunder built an early lead, posting 37 points in the first quarter compared with Cleveland’s 20. The Cavaliers rallied in the second half, scoring 42 points in the fourth quarter, but the Thunder’s consistent offense kept them ahead, finishing with 124 points to the Cavs’ 116.
Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander (SGA) was the focal point of Oklahoma City’s attack, scoring over 40 points for the second straight game, as highlighted by Bleacher Report’s “SGA Drops 40+ on Cavs AGAIN” note. His aggressive play helped offset the loss of All‑Star big Chet Holmgren, who remains out with a patellar‑tendon injury, and wing Jalen Williams, sidelined with a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle.
In addition to SGA, the Thunder received contributions from Ajay Mitchell, Jared McCain, Kenrich Williams, and Isaiah Hartenstein, the projected starters listed by Sports Illustrated and JingleTree. The lineup reflects the team’s reliance on its remaining healthy core after a spate of injuries that have kept Cason Wallace (shoulder), Jaylin Williams (back), Nikola Topic (back), Thomas Sorber (knee), and others on the sidelines.
The Cavaliers entered the game with their own injury concerns. Both Peyton Watson (hamstring) and Jaylon Tyson (ankle) were listed as out by Sports Illustrated, leaving the Cavs to start James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Meleek Thomas, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Despite the depleted roster, Cleveland managed a strong fourth‑quarter surge, highlighted by a 42‑point quarter, but fell short.
Key moments noted by Bleacher Report included a put‑back dunk by Mara, a late dunk by Evan Mobley, and an “And‑1” play by SGA. The game also featured a notable performance from Kenrich Williams, who was praised by Ajay Mitchell as a team leader.
Both outlets emphasized the significance of the win for Oklahoma City. Sports Illustrated noted that the Thunder have proven they can succeed “even without key guys in the lineup,” while JingleTree highlighted the pressure on SGA as the two‑time reigning MVP to carry the team.
What’s next: The Thunder will look to build on this victory as they continue their season, with fans encouraged to follow upcoming games on DAZN and local radio WTAM 1100, as listed in the game’s broadcast information.
Sources: si.com, jingletree.com, bleacherreport.com
