Grading the OKC Thunder’s best bench performer:
Aaron Wiggins, G, OKC Thunder: A+
Often recognized for his defense and effort, Wiggins came up big on the scoreboard Wednesday. With a season-high 22 points, the wing finished as the Thunder’s second-leading scorer.
While many Thunder players had solid nights from beyond the arc, Wiggins led the way with a 4-of-6 performance. His first make from deep put the Thunder up 19 in the second quarter as they first began to assert their will.
Although a fair chunk of Wiggins’ points came in garbage time, it was still a reminder that good things tend to happen when the ball is in his hands.
Grading the best Spur:
Victor Wembanyama, C, San Antonio Spurs: A-
Typically, games like this call for the entire Thunder bench to be graded. But blowouts also don’t typically involve generational talents like Wembanyama on the other side.
It would also be irresponsible to leave out the 2023 No. 1 pick. After all, the NBA didn’t put Wednesday’s game as part of Rivals Week because it longs for the days of the Thunder and Spurs meeting in the Western Conference Finals.
After a disappointing matchup in the first game in November, Wembanyama delivered on Wednesday with 24 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks. On a few occasions, the rookie showed how valuable his 7-foot-4 frame was, as the Thunder could do little to get in his way once he got to the basket.