How you respond, that's one of our biggest things,” coach Tyronn Lue said. "We responded well." Isaiah Joe and Lu Dort had open looks as the Thunder (27-13) shot 50%, including 47% on three-pointers. The Clippers' 60% free-throw line shooting was their third-worst this season and atypical for the league's sixth-best club.
Mason Plumlee, who replaced Zubac, and reserve Daniel Theis scored 23 points and 13 rebounds, with coach Tyronn Lue saying they looked “great” in greater roles.
The Clippers' offense relies on Zubac's pick-and-roll game with point guard James Harden. The 26-year-old center averages career highs in points (12.4), blocked shots (1.4), rebounds (9.7), and assists (1.3). Harden had also discussed his pick-and-roll preferences with players other than Zubac following shootarounds and workouts, and despite Plumlee's two-month injury, he was ready for Tuesday.
"We’re older, so he can tell me," Plumlee added. "I needn't practice 100 times. As everyone says, he simplifies the game. Playing with him is pleasant."
On Tuesdays, teammates say George is too. George, who needs rhythm to score, missed his first six attempts until the second quarter. He made 14 of his final 18 shots, including seven of his nine in the fourth quarter, scoring 18 points and shimmying in ecstasy after making his sixth and final three-pointer. George has struggled with turnovers, but he was turnover-free in 34 minutes.
PG did an unbelievable job of staying with it, being aggressive and taking his shots, especially in that fourth quarter," added Harden, who had 16 points and 8 assists.
George exploded against his old team almost five years after the Clippers traded choices and players, including standout guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, to acquire George and secure Kawhi Leonard's free agency. Since then, the Clippers' assets have fueled Oklahoma City's meteoric development.
Both sides won," George stated. "Shai, originally, no one noticed the trade... We thought Shai would be great, but he's special. Oklahoma got selections and a future MVP in that transaction. Another superb transaction for all parties."