Post-mortem: 5 key takeaways as Thunder annihilate Grizzlies 131-80 in Game 1 blowout

The Thunder made a statement in Game 1 of their playoff series against the Grizzlies, crushing Memphis 131-80 in what is now the largest margin of victory in a Game 1 in NBA playoff history — and the most lopsided win in Oklahoma City’s postseason history.

Thunder - Grizzlies Game 1 recap HERE.

Historical Blowout

The Oklahoma City Thunder didn’t just win Game 1< they made history. Their 131-80 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies represents the largest margin of victory in an NBA playoff Game 1 in history. It also stands as the most lopsided win in Thunder playoff history and the most significant loss in Grizzlies’ postseason history. This was a statement performance from the Thunder, proving they’re ready for the playoffs in a way few expected.

Thunder Defense Smothers Grizzlies

Oklahoma City's defense was suffocating throughout the game, forcing 24 turnovers and limiting Memphis to just 34.4% shooting from the field and 17.6% from three-point range. The Thunder's relentless pressure was on full display, with players like Lu Dort, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace all contributing to a shutdown effort. The Grizzlies had no answer for Oklahoma City’s all-around defensive dominance.

🏀For all of our OKC Thunder Playoff coverage, CLICK HERE.

Depth

Despite a subpar performance from MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder showed the full extent of their depth and teamwork. Gilgeous-Alexander finished with just 15 points on 4-for-13 shooting, but the team still managed to blow out Memphis. Six Thunder players scored in double figures, with Aaron Wiggins leading the way with 21 points off the bench. This performance highlighted the depth of Oklahoma City, with everyone contributing. 10 guys played in the first quarter alone. Total of 37 assists!

Memphis Struggles on Both Ends

The Grizzlies had no answer offensively or defensively. Ja Morant and Desmond Bane struggled against Oklahoma City’s defense, with Bane posting a minus-51 plus/minus, the worst in a playoff game in the 21st century. Memphis shot poorly and turned the ball over frequently, leading to a staggering 27 fast-break points for the Thunder. Memphis’ inability to execute on either side of the ball left them completely outmatched.

Grizzlies Face Long Road Ahead

After such a demoralizing loss, Memphis has a lot of ground to cover. Coach Tuomas Iisalo acknowledged that the Grizzlies need to clean up their mistakes, especially their turnovers and poor shooting. With the series now at 1-0 in favor of Oklahoma City, the Grizzlies must adjust quickly if they hope to have a chance in Game 2. However, the Thunder’s dominant performance, particularly in a game where their star didn’t perform at his usual level, suggests Memphis may be facing an uphill battle in this series.