The twisted thing about history is how quickly anniversaries can change meaning. For nine years, May 28 evoked a franchise-haunting what-if. Klay Thompson’s name was whispered in Oklahoma City for a decade following a Game 6 rampage for the ages. Then, a year ago, the Thunder repurposed the date, punching their ticket to return to the NBA Finals. To glory.
This year, May 28 soured again. The Thunder, in the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander era, historically haven’t met the moment when summoned for a Game 6. Thursday’s 118-91 thrashing, though, invited more than a Game 7. It created an inflection point.
Oklahoma City’s potential dynasty faces its most serious threat to date.
The players recognize the stakes. All-NBA forward Jalen Williams, after a season thwarted by injuries, hurried to return for Game 6 after missing the previous four with a left hamstring injury. Gilgeous-Alexander, after being stifled in these Western Conference finals, framed OKC’s stark reality.
