Thunder Rookies Shine in Second Win Over Cavaliers

The Thunder recovered from two consecutive losses by beating the Cavaliers for the second time in a row. Oklahoma City built a lead of more than 20 points early at Paycom Center and secured its sixth win of the season, despite Cleveland making several attempts to take control.

Rookie Bennett Stirtz scored 16 points and made four of seven shots from beyond the arc, setting career highs in both points and three-pointers. With many Thunder players sidelined by injuries, he has provided shooting and another option to handle the ball.

Aday Mara made his first career start and contributed nine points and three blocks. His put-back dunk with just over a minute to play helped seal the result. Oklahoma City finished with both rookies on the floor, using Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s presence to create opportunities for them.

Jared McCain also ended a long stretch without a made three-pointer. After missing 16 in a row, he connected early in the fourth quarter, finishing a play around an Isaiah Hartenstein screen with a shot from distance. McCain had gone without a made three since October 26 and scored nine points.

Cleveland struggled to match Oklahoma City’s energy in both games. Alex Caruso returned for the second matchup, while the Thunder’s late shooting helped keep the Cavaliers from completing a comeback.