In a stunning start to their playoff campaign, the Oklahoma City Thunder thrashed the Memphis Grizzlies 131-80, securing the largest Game 1 victory in NBA history while leaving the Grizzlies to write an apology letter to their fans.

The Thunder's decisive 51-point victory not only set a record for Game 1 of the playoffs, but also raised questions about how Memphis will respond under interim coach Tuomas Iisalo, who might be penning a heartfelt apology amid a shooting percentage that could make a layup look like a three-pointer. With standout performances from Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, it's clear Oklahoma City is hoping to carry this momentum into their next matchup on Tuesday, while the Grizzlies just hope to recover their dignity.

The Thunder's performance was a symphony of offensive excellence, highlighted by a 20-0 run that left the Grizzlies more baffled than a cat in a dog park. Jalen Williams led the charge, scoring 20 points with a precision that could make a watchmaker weep with envy. Meanwhile, Chet Holmgren showcased his versatility with a double-double, scoring 19 points and snatching 10 rebounds, proving evidently that he has not only arrived but is also throwing a welcome party.

Despite their star power, the Grizzlies couldn't get their act together. Shooting at a dismal 34.4% overall, they probably could have increased their accuracy by tossing the ball into the air and hoping for the best. Ja Morant, their ace in the hole, managed a mere 17 points on 6-for-17 shooting, leading fans to question whether he left his shooting touch at home or if it was lost on the flight. Regardless, it was a performance that brought back memories of awkward family gatherings – just when you think things can’t get worse, they somehow find a way.

This marked Memphis' first playoff appearance under interim coach Tuomas Iisalo, who assumed the role amid much speculation and apprehension. Leading a team into the playoffs is no small task, but providing clear directions afterward could be even trickier, especially if his players were inadvertently learning the art of existential dread while watching their shot clock tick down. Judging by the gameplay, Iisalo might need to start a new seminar on 'Finding Your Rhythm While Under Siege.'

On the other hand, the Thunder only needed to maintain their momentum to capitalize on the Grizzlies’ missteps. With a league-best 68-14 record in the regular season, they entered the playoffs as heavy favorites. The sheer collective weight of their season's victories seems to have infused the players with the confidence of a cat that knows it was adopted by royalty. Head Coach Mark Daigneault must be preparing his players for a potential title run, while the Grizzlies would be well-served to focus on a game plan that does not include standing still and hoping for good fortune.

While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s scoring champion, only contributed 15 points in this particular match, the Thunder didn't seem to mind. Winning by 51 points has a soothing effect, even to the most high-spirited of star athletes. Besides, in games like this, sometimes it’s about sharing the spoils, or as they might say in Oklahoma City, ‘More points for everyone!’

Looking ahead to Tuesday's game, the Thunder will aim to keep their rhythm going and cement a firm hold on the series. Meanwhile, expectations for the Grizzlies will likely resemble a balancing act: one part rebuilding strategies, one part existential questioning over why it feels like they just endured a family reunion without any good food. A bounce-back performance is crucial; otherwise, the Grizzlies might have to consider changing their mascot to a metaphorical punching bag.

As the play unfolds in the subsequent games, one wonders if the Thunder will continue their dominance following their significant victory over the Grizzlies, who lost 131-80 in Game 1 of their first-round Western Conference playoff series. Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: there will be plenty of popcorn consumed and heart rates elevated, as fans tune in to accommodate the thrilling chaos that is playoff basketball.