Historic Shooting Performance Pushes OKC Thunder to No. 2 in Western Conference

Behind one of Oklahoma City's best offensive performances in franchise history, Mark Daigneault's team continues to climb the Western Conference standings.

On Sunday evening, the Oklahoma City Thunder trounced the Portland Trail Blazers, taking down Jerami Grant and company 134-91 at the Moda Center.

In the victory, OKC recorded the highest true shooting percentage in franchise history, dating back to the team's days in Seattle. Against the Blazers, the Thunder shot 60.5% from the field, 61.1% from 3-point range and 100% from the free throw line. 

According to Matt Williams, Oklahoma City is the first team to shoot 60/60/100 in a single game in the last 25 years. The team's whopping 77% true shooting percentage in Portland was by far the highest in team history, breaking the previous record of 75.1%. 

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Star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way for OKC, shooting 10-for-13 from the field, 1-for-1 from beyond the arc and 7-for-7 from the charity stripe to finish with 28 points. Rookie center Chet Holmgren was also extremely efficient, going 6-for-6 from the field, 2-for-2 from deep and 2-for-2 from the the line.

The Thunder have been consistent on offense this season, and have some of the highest shooting percentages in the league. Through 14 games, Oklahoma City has knocked down 50% of its field goals, 41% of its 3-point attempts and 87% of its free throws.

OKC's hot start to the season has helped Mark Daigneault's team open up with a 10-4 record, which is good for second place in the Western Conference. The Thunder's five-game win streak has featured four consecutive 120-point outings for Oklahoma City, indicating that the team's offense is humming with Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren and Jalen Williams all hitting their stride at the same time.

The only team ahead of OKC in the Western Conference is the Minnesota Timberwolves, who currently sit at 9-3. The Thunder and Timberwolves will meet for the first time this year on Nov. 28 for the final In-Season Tournament Group Play match. 

If Oklahoma City continues to hit such high shooting numbers, the team will likely surpass its preseason win-total projections and earn a spot in the NBA Playoffs.

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