Cavaliers End Thunder's 15-Game Winning Streak In Thrilling Matchup

Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) dunks in the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

The Cleveland Cavaliers emerged victorious in a thrilling matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, snapping the Thunder's impressive 15-game winning streak with a final score of 129-122. The game showcased the top two teams in the NBA going head-to-head, with the Cavs extending their own winning streak to 11 games.

Leading the charge for Cleveland was Jarrett Allen, who poured in 25 points, supported by Evan Mobley's 21-point performance. Despite a relatively quiet night from Donovan Mitchell, who scored just 11 points, the Cavaliers showcased their depth and resilience.

On the Thunder's side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the scoring with 31 points, while Jalen Williams contributed 25 points in a valiant effort to keep Oklahoma City in the game.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scores 31 points for Thunder.

Jarrett Allen leads Cavs with 25 points, Evan Mobley adds 21.

Intense game with 30 lead changes, Cavs extend winning streak to 11.

Isaiah Hartenstein impresses with 18 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists.

Crucial call in favor of Cavs leads to Mobley's key shot.

Cavs boast 32-4 record through 36 games, among elite NBA teams.

Thunder face New York next, Cavs host Toronto in upcoming games.

Only third time in NBA history two double-digit winning streak teams face off.

Darius Garland contributes 18 points and 7 assists for Cavs.

Game had potential Finals intensity, neither team led by more than nine points.

The contest had all the intensity of a potential Finals matchup, with 30 lead changes and neither team holding a lead of more than nine points throughout the game. This showdown marked only the third time in NBA history that two teams on double-digit winning streaks faced off.

Key Takeaways

Thunder: Gilgeous-Alexander shone as the team's star player, while Isaiah Hartenstein showcased his skills with an impressive stat line of 18 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists.

Cavaliers: Cleveland displayed its balance and depth, with Mobley and Allen combining for 22 rebounds and 13 assists. Darius Garland also made significant contributions with 18 points and seven assists.

Key Moment

With the game hanging in the balance at 125-122 in favor of the Cavaliers, a crucial call went Cleveland's way after a replay review overturned a foul on Mitchell. Mobley capitalized on the opportunity, sinking a 10-footer to extend the lead to five points.

Key Stat

Through 36 games, the Cavaliers boast an impressive 32-4 record, placing them among an elite group of teams in NBA history. Only four teams have had a better record at this stage of the season.

Upcoming Games

Thunder: Oklahoma City will look to bounce back as they continue their road trip with a game against New York on Friday.

Cavaliers: Cleveland will aim to maintain their winning ways as they prepare to host Toronto in their next matchup on Thursday.

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