Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 25-point performance led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a dominant 119-84 victory over the Phoenix Suns in Game 1, marking a confident start to their title defense. Though he shot just 5-of-18 from the field, Gilgeous-Alexander's 15-of-17 free throws and clutch third-quarter three-pointer secured the win. Jalen Williams (22) and Chet Holmgren (16) complemented the effort, while the Suns struggled with 34.9% shooting despite Devin Booker's 23 points.

The Thunder's early momentum contrasted sharply with the Celtics' commanding 123-91 win over the Philadelphia 76ers, where Jayson Tatum dominated with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists in his first playoff game since Achilles surgery. Tatum's 21 first-half points and Boston's 16 three-pointers dismantled Philadelphia, which managed only 4-of-23 from deep. The 64-point halftime deficit for the 76ers—their largest in a playoff game against Boston since 1982—highlighted their struggles without Joel Embiid, who remains sidelined due to an appendectomy.

Oklahoma City's title defense begins on a high note, leveraging home-court advantage in Game 2 against the Suns. For Boston, Tatum's return to form signals a potential playoff resurgence, though Philadelphia's inability to contain him raises questions about their playoff viability. Meanwhile, Embiid's absence underscores the 76ers' vulnerability, with Tyrese Maxey (21 points) unable to carry the offense against relentless Celtics defense. Both series now pivot on adjustments—Thunder must sustain their intensity, while Boston aims to maintain its offensive precision against a rested Sixers squad.