Cleveland Cavaliers vs OKC Thunder Match Player Stats: Key Moments & Complete Match Analysis
Introduction
The Cleveland Cavaliers vs OKC Thunder match player stats highlight a fast-paced and highly competitive NBA matchup where efficiency, inside dominance, and bench impact ultimately shaped the result. While Oklahoma City brought scoring firepower and transition speed, Cleveland relied on interior strength, balanced offense, and controlled execution.
This game was not decided by one player alone. Instead, it reflected how team structure, shot selection, and defensive rebounding can outweigh raw scoring bursts. A close look at the box score reveals why Cleveland managed to stay composed and edge past a dangerous Thunder lineup.
By breaking down the Cleveland Cavaliers vs OKC Thunder match player stats, we can clearly see how momentum shifted and which performances truly mattered beyond the final score.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs OKC Thunder Match Overview
Both teams entered the game with contrasting styles. Oklahoma City leaned on guard-driven offense and spacing, while Cleveland focused on paint scoring and frontcourt control. The contest remained competitive through all four quarters, with scoring runs answered quickly on both ends.
OKC showed strong perimeter shooting early, especially through Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. However, Cleveland consistently responded by attacking inside, drawing fouls, and converting high-percentage shots near the rim.
As the game progressed, Cleveland’s ability to limit mistakes and dominate key possessions became the deciding factor. The Cleveland Cavaliers vs OKC Thunder match player stats confirm that efficiency and rebounding played a larger role than tempo alone.
Boths Teams Performance Overview
Oklahoma City Thunder Team Stats
Oklahoma City finished the game with 122 total points, shooting 48-of-90 from the field (53%), which reflects strong overall efficiency. Their three-point shooting stood at 11-of-31 (35%), while free throw execution was excellent at 15-of-17 (88%).
The Thunder collected 38 total rebounds and recorded 35 assists, showcasing solid ball movement and unselfish offense. However, 13 turnovers disrupted momentum at key moments, allowing Cleveland to capitalize in transition and half-court sets.
Defensively, OKC added 9 steals and 5 blocks, but interior resistance remained inconsistent against Cleveland’s bigs. The stats suggest a strong offensive showing that lacked control during critical stretches.
Cleveland Cavaliers Team Stats
Cleveland outscored OKC with 129 total points, shooting 47-of-90 from the field (52%). Their perimeter efficiency stood out, as they knocked down 15-of-36 three-pointers (42%), giving them a clear edge from beyond the arc.
At the free throw line, Cleveland went 20-of-27 (74%), while also winning the rebounding battle with 40 total rebounds. They dished out 36 assists, reflecting patient offense and consistent ball movement throughout the lineup.
The Cavaliers committed 15 turnovers, but compensated with superior interior defense, recording 12 blocks and limiting OKC’s second-chance impact. The Cleveland Cavaliers vs OKC Thunder match player stats show that Cleveland’s balanced execution outweighed OKC’s pace-driven approach.
Key First-Half Themes
Cleveland established control in the paint early through Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, forcing OKC to defend inside and rotate frequently. This opened up perimeter opportunities that Cleveland converted efficiently.
OKC responded with guard scoring and transition plays, but struggled to sustain defensive stops when Cleveland slowed the game. By halftime, the contrast between shot selection and interior control was already evident in the stat sheet.
The Cleveland Cavaliers vs OKC Thunder match player stats clearly indicate that while OKC relied on scoring spurts, Cleveland built consistency possession by possession.
Cleveland Cavaliers Player Stats Breakdown
1. Jarrett Allen – Interior Dominance
Stats:
- Points: 25
- Field Goals: 9/11
- Free Throws: 7/10
- Rebounds: 11 (7 OREB, 4 DREB)
- Assists: 6
- Steals: 3
- Blocks: 1
- Plus/Minus: +7
Performance Insight:
Allen controlled the paint on both ends. His efficiency around the rim and offensive rebounding gave Cleveland consistent second-chance points and slowed OKC’s transition game.
2. Evan Mobley – Two-Way Impact
Stats:
- Points: 21
- Field Goals: 8/13
- Free Throws: 5/7
- Rebounds: 10
- Assists: 7
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 1
- Turnovers: 3
- Plus/Minus: +8
Performance Insight:
Mobley’s ability to score inside while facilitating from the high post kept Cleveland’s offense balanced. Defensively, his length disrupted OKC’s driving lanes.
3. Darius Garland – Floor General
Stats:
- Points: 18
- Field Goals: 7/15
- Three-Pointers: 2/6
- Free Throws: 2/2
- Assists: 7
- Rebounds: 1
- Turnovers: 2
- Plus/Minus: +7
Performance Insight:
Garland dictated pace and spacing. His timely shot-making prevented OKC runs and allowed Cleveland to stay composed in half-court sets.
4. Donovan Mitchell – Off-Ball Pressure Creator
Stats:
- Points: 11
- Field Goals: 3/16
- Three-Pointers: 2/7
- Free Throws: 3/4
- Rebounds: 6
- Assists: 4
- Turnovers: 1
- Plus/Minus: +8
Performance Insight:
Despite shooting struggles, Mitchell’s aggression forced defensive attention. His off-ball gravity opened scoring opportunities for teammates.
5. Dean Wade – Efficient Role Player
Stats:
- Points: 11
- Field Goals: 4/5
- Three-Pointers: 3/4
- Rebounds: 3
- Assists: 1
- Turnovers: 2
- Plus/Minus: 0
Performance Insight:
Wade maximized his touches, stretching OKC’s defense with efficient perimeter shooting and smart off-ball movement.
Cavaliers Bench Contributions
Ty Jerome
Stats:
- Points: 15
- Field Goals: 6/7
- Free Throws: 3/4
- Assists: 1
- Steals: 2
- Turnovers: 3
- Plus/Minus: +2
Max Strus
Stats:
- Points: 17
- Field Goals: 6/7
- Three-Pointers: 5/6
- Rebounds: 3
- Assists: 5
- Turnovers: 3
- Plus/Minus: +1
Caris LeVert
Stats:
- Points: 8
- Field Goals: 3/9
- Three-Pointers: 2/5
- Rebounds: 2
- Assists: 2
- Plus/Minus: -9
Bench Impact Insight:
Cleveland’s bench delivered efficient scoring without disrupting spacing. Strus and Jerome, in particular, provided critical momentum during non-starter minutes.
Oklahoma City Thunder Player Stats Breakdown
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Offensive Leader
Stats:
- Points: 31
- Field Goals: 13/27
- Three-Pointers: 1/6
- Free Throws: 4/4
- Rebounds: 5
- Assists: 4
- Steals: 3
- Blocks: 2
- Turnovers: 5
- Plus/Minus: -1
Performance Insight:
Shai carried OKC’s offense, attacking in isolation and drawing fouls. His two-way production kept the Thunder competitive.
2. Jalen Williams – Momentum Shifter
Stats:
- Points: 25
- Field Goals: 9/17
- Three-Pointers: 2/7
- Free Throws: 5/7
- Rebounds: 5
- Assists: 9
- Steals: 3
- Turnovers: 3
- Plus/Minus: -12
Performance Insight:
Williams played with confidence, scoring in transition and creating opportunities. His playmaking was vital during OKC’s strongest stretches.
3. Isaiah Hartenstein – Physical Presence
Stats:
- Points: 18
- Field Goals: 8/14
- Free Throws: 2/2
- Rebounds: 11 (5 OREB, 6 DREB)
- Assists: 8
- Turnovers: 2
- Plus/Minus: -2
Performance Insight:
Hartenstein facilitated offense effectively from the post but struggled defensively against Cleveland’s size inside.
4. Cason Wallace – Efficient Contributor
Stats:
- Points: 15
- Field Goals: 6/8
- Three-Pointers: 3/3
- Rebounds: 2
- Assists: 3
- Turnovers: 0
- Plus/Minus: +2
Performance Insight:
Wallace made the most of his opportunities, scoring efficiently and maintaining control without forcing plays.
5. Luguentz Dort – Defensive Assignment
Stats:
- Points: 7
- Field Goals: 2/6
- Three-Pointers: 1/3
- Free Throws: 2/2
- Rebounds: 4
- Assists: 4
- Steals: 1
- Blocks: 2
- Plus/Minus: -15
Performance Insight:
Dort focused on defensive duties, limiting scoring impact but contributing through physical perimeter defense.
Thunder Bench Contributions
Aaron Wiggins
Stats:
- Points: 11
- Field Goals: 5/7
- Rebounds: 2
- Assists: 1
- Plus/Minus: +4
Isaiah Joe
Stats:
- Points: 8
- Field Goals: 2/6
- Three-Pointers: 2/6
- Rebounds: 7
- Assists: 3
- Plus/Minus: 0
Bench Impact Insight:
OKC’s bench brought energy but lacked sustained efficiency, making it difficult to maintain momentum during key rotations.
To compare this matchup with another high-profile NBA clash, explore our LA Clippers vs 76ers Match Player Stats coverage.
Team Stats Comparison: Cavaliers vs Thunder
| Stat Category | Cavaliers | Thunder |
|---|---|---|
| Total Points | 129 | 122 |
| Field Goal % | 52% | 53% |
| Three-Point % | 42% | 35% |
| Free Throw % | 74% | 88% |
| Total Rebounds | 40 | 38 |
| Assists | 36 | 35 |
| Turnovers | 15 | 13 |
| Steals | 7 | 9 |
| Blocks | 2 | 5 |
| Offensive Rebounds | 12 | 9 |
Stat Takeaway:
While Oklahoma City shot slightly better overall from the field, Cleveland’s three-point efficiency, rebounding edge, and half-court execution created the real difference in this NBA matchup.
Momentum Shifts That Defined the Game
First Half: Thunder Pace vs Cavaliers Control
OKC came out pushing tempo, relying on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s shot creation and early ball movement. The Thunder’s aggressive transition offense helped them stay close despite Cleveland’s interior scoring.
Cleveland, however, stayed patient. Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley consistently punished mismatches in the paint, preventing OKC from fully taking control.
Third Quarter: Cavaliers Take Command
The game’s biggest momentum swing came in the third quarter.
Cleveland increased defensive intensity, limited second-chance points, and began converting catch-and-shoot threes through Max Strus and Dean Wade.
This stretch highlighted why Cleveland’s roster construction works well in structured NBA basketball — strong interior defense combined with reliable perimeter shooting.
Fourth Quarter: Experience Wins
OKC made several late pushes behind Jalen Williams and Shai, but Cleveland responded with composure.
Key rebounds, smart shot selection, and controlled possessions allowed the Cavaliers to close the game without rushing.
This is where experience mattered most. Cleveland dictated pace, while OKC’s youth showed in a few rushed possessions.
What the Numbers Really Say
- Cleveland won through shot quality, spacing, and interior dominance
- OKC stayed competitive with athleticism, steals, and individual shot creation
- The Cavaliers’ ability to slow the game down ultimately decided the outcome
From a pure NBA analytics perspective, this matchup showed how structured half-court basketball can outperform speed when execution stays consistent.
Key Takeaways from Cavaliers vs Thunder Match Player Stats
This Cavaliers vs Thunder matchup highlighted two different NBA identities on the same floor. Cleveland relied on structure, discipline, and interior control, while Oklahoma City leaned into pace, athleticism, and individual shot creation.
Cleveland’s ability to execute in the half court stood out the most. They did not chase quick shots or get pulled into a fast-paced style. Instead, they trusted spacing, ball movement, and interior efficiency to control the game.
For OKC, the performance showed why they remain one of the most exciting young teams in the league. Their energy, defensive activity, and scoring versatility kept pressure on Cleveland throughout, even when execution dipped late.
What This Game Reveals About Both Teams
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers once again proved they are built for controlled NBA basketball. Strong rebounding, smart shot selection, and consistent defensive positioning allowed them to manage momentum rather than react to it.
Their depth also played a major role. Bench contributions helped maintain rhythm when starters rested, ensuring there was no major drop-off in efficiency or intensity.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder showed flashes of dominance through speed and shot-making. Their ability to force turnovers and create open looks in transition was impressive.
However, late-game possessions exposed areas for growth. Decision-making under pressure and half-court execution remain the biggest next steps for this roster.
FAQs
Who was the top scorer in the Cavaliers vs Thunder game?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with 31 points, while Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley paced Cleveland inside.
Which team had better shooting efficiency?
Both teams shot efficiently, but Cleveland held the edge from three-point range, which proved decisive.
How important was rebounding in this matchup?
Rebounding played a major role. Cleveland’s control of the defensive glass limited OKC’s second-chance opportunities.
Did bench players impact the result?
Yes. Cleveland’s bench provided stability and spacing, while OKC’s bench brought energy but lacked consistency defensively.
What was the deciding factor in the game?
Cleveland’s composure in late possessions and disciplined half-court execution ultimately decided the outcome.
Final Thoughts
The Cavaliers vs Thunder match player stats tell a story that goes beyond the final score. Cleveland showed why experience, structure, and discipline still matter in the NBA. Oklahoma City showed why the future of the league is fast, fearless, and full of potential.
This game served as a strong benchmark for both teams. Cleveland reinforced its identity as a reliable closing team, while OKC gained valuable lessons that will shape their growth moving forward.
For fans who enjoy tactical basketball and player-level insights, this matchup delivered exactly that.
