Thunder Aim to Continue Winning Streak Against Mavericks

The Oklahoma City Thunder continue their impressive start to the NBA season, heading into Monday night’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks with a perfect 3-0 record. The Thunder, fresh off their first championship since relocating from Seattle, have relied on standout performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and rising star Chet Holmgren. Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA MVP, posted 30 points in their recent 117-100 victory over Atlanta, while Holmgren added 31 points and 11 rebounds, despite being listed as questionable for the upcoming game with lower back soreness. The Thunder’s depth has been tested early this season, with key players like Jalen Williams (wrist surgery), Alex Caruso (concussion protocol), and Isaiah Joe (knee) sidelined. However, second-year guard Ajay Mitchell has stepped up, averaging 18.7 points and 4.3 assists per game—a significant jump from his rookie stats. According to Gilgeous-Alexander, “He doesn’t need a play called for him. He just goes out there, figures out a way, makes the right basketball play, plays hard and wins.” On the other side, the Mavericks (1-2) are coming off their first win of the season, a high-scoring 139-129 triumph over the Toronto Raptors. Rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick, was instrumental, putting up 22 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists without a single turnover. At just 18 years and 309 days old, Flagg became the fifth-youngest player in NBA history to score at least 20 points in a game. Veteran Anthony Davis contributed 25 points and 10 rebounds, and D’Angelo Russell came off the bench for 24 points and six assists. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd emphasized the team’s resilience following last season’s trade of Luka Doncic for Davis and the addition of Flagg in the draft: “You gotta live with mistakes… We gotta be able to go through the fire to be a champion.” Historically, the Mavericks have matched up well against the Thunder, taking three of four meetings last regular season. Monday’s contest is particularly notable as it’s the first head-to-head between Flagg and the defending champions. The Mavericks are playing the second game of a back-to-back, while Oklahoma City is on the first night of their own back-to-back set. Injury-wise, Dallas is still missing guard Brandon Williams (personal reasons), while forward Daniel Gafford is nearing a return from an ankle sprain. For Oklahoma City, Holmgren’s status remains uncertain, but he has shown the ability to play through pain, recently returning to action after dislocating his thumb mid-game. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 PM ET, with coverage available on FanDuel Sports Network Kansas City and MyNetworkTV (KJBO – Wichita Falls, TX). For fans looking to stream the action, platforms like Fubo offer live access to NBA games, including nationally broadcast channels such as ESPN and NBA TV. With the Thunder aiming to extend their unbeaten run and the Mavericks looking to build momentum behind their exciting rookie, this matchup promises high stakes and compelling storylines for both teams. For live scores, highlights, and updated stats, fans can follow the game on ESPN’s Thunder vs. Mavericks game page.