Thunder Rout Suns in Game 1

Oklahoma City's balanced attack and elite defense overwhelmed the eighth-seeded Suns from the opening tip.

Despite a poor shooting night from the field, Gilgeous-Alexander was nearly perfect from the free-throw line, drawing praise for his poise under pressure.

The Suns will need a significantly better effort in Game 2 to avoid falling into a deep hole against the league's most consistent team.

Thunder players emphasized that they expect Phoenix to adjust and improve as the series progresses.