Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued to make his MVP case with a dazzling 40 points and eight assists in just 29 minutes. Luguentz Dort dominated at both ends — his season-high 22 points and six 3s told just part of the story — and after Thursday’s game both the Thunder and Cavs have identical 34-6 records. But a much larger statement was made.

For an Oklahoma City Thunder team that is 34-6, there has been no shortage of advesity this season. The no excuse Thunder have had to navigate being without Che