NBA Notes: Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Celtics, Payton Pritchard, Rockets

Thunder

The Thunder appear to be heating up during their season of dreams, playing even better than before in recent weeks.

“Oklahoma City has won 10 of its past 11 games, scoring a league-high 122.7 points per 100 possessions during that span despite Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren each missing four games,” wrote ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. “Seven Thunder players have averaged double figures over the 11-game stretch, led by MVP favorite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander‘s 35.9 points per game on .542/.406/.946 shooting splits.”

Celtics

Without a doubt, Celtics guard Payton Pritchard is among the leaders when it comes to NBA Sixth Man of the Year. The reasons are many, especially when it comes to his perimeter play.

“Pritchard became the all-time record holder for the most 3-pointers made in a season by a reserve in NBA history despite almost a month remaining on the schedule,” wrote ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. “Pritchard has been one of the most consistent players on the team this season outside of Jayson Tatum, and his constant help off the bench has made him a favorite to win Sixth Man of the Year.”

Rockets

Continuing a rise in the West, the Rockets are also playing some of their best basketball with the playoffs right around the bend.

“The Rockets extended their winning streak to seven games Monday in dramatic fashion by rallying from a 25-point deficit against Philadelphia, tying the largest comeback win in franchise history,” noted ESPN’s Michael Wright. “Budding talents Jabari Smith Jr. and Jalen Green dropped 30 points apiece as the team continues drawing significant contributions from Alperen Sengun, Tari Eason and Dillon Brooks.

“Despite the streak, Rockets coach Ime Udoka is well aware of his team’s tendency to struggle against lesser teams, saying “something is obviously going wrong there.”

• Related | Available NBA free agents by position