Even without important pieces like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Doncic, Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein and Dereck Lively II, both teams' role players simmered the beef between the ball clubs. The usually well-mannered Thunder were hit with multiple technical fouls. PJ Washington continued to poke the bear.

After the game, Irving was asked about Zion Williamson. Irving (h/t Joey Mistretta of ClutchPoints): "He's been through a lot in his personal life and just with injuries. He came