In a scoring frenzy that would make even the Golden State Warriors blush, the Oklahoma City Thunder shattered the NBA playoff record with 87 first-half points against the Denver Nuggets, proving that offense really does win games—at least for one half.

This historic outburst not only broke the previous first-half record of 86 points set by the Cavaliers in 2017 but also tied the all-time record for any half in playoff history. With a blistering 58.8% shooting and all five starters scoring at least 10 points, the Thunder cruised to a 149-106 victory, setting a new benchmark for postseason dominance and showcasing an identity that’s more about scoring than playing defense—for now.

In the first 24 minutes, the Thunder put on a display that could only be described as basketball’s equivalent of a fireworks show on the Fourth of July—if fireworks were capable of dribbling and shooting three-pointers. Leading 87-56 at halftime, even the most ardent fans of defense would have to admit they were watching a masterclass in offensive efficiency that can only be rivaled by a kid with a turbo booster on his scooter speeding past a group of reluctant adults on foot.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander spearheaded this offensive blitz, leading the team with 18 points. His performance sparkled like a diamond in a field of rocks, and not merely for his dazzling skills but also for the fact that all five Thunder starters managed to score in double figures during the first half. This makes one wonder whether the Nuggets were adequately prepared or if they were merely caught in an existential crisis halfway through their game plan.

When asked about the team's historic performance, Coach Mark Daigneault pointed out that this wasn't a desperate reaction to their previous game but rather a reflection of the Thunder’s core identity. "This is who we are, or it’s at least who we aspire to be when we remember to put on our scoring shoes," he quipped, managing to keep a straight face while echoing the sentiments of a coach who might just marvel at how fun it is to watch points proliferate on the scoreboard.

Interestingly, this 149-106 victory also marked a league milestone, as Oklahoma City became the first team to secure two postseason wins by at least 40 points. Spare a moment for the Denver Nuggets, who may need to reevaluate their defensive strategy that currently resembles a make-believe fortress—great in theory but full of holes in practice. After all, when your opponents are scoring at the rate of an over-caffeinated toddler, you’re likely to end up in the history books for all the wrong reasons.

Defensive breakdowns were evident, especially when the Thunder lined up at the free throw line, where they managed to sink 17 of 18 attempts, an efficiency reminiscent of scoring from a candy store. The Nuggets' defense, meanwhile, seemed to be perpetually stuck in quicksand as they tried to keep pace. At one point, their coaches were leaning over with expressions that seemed to scream, "Quick, can we just start over?"

As for the Thunder, their joy was palpable. With 87 points scored in just one half, they had managed to plaster a smile not only on their faces but also on the faces of their fans—most of whom were likely still trying to figure out whether they should be holding their breath or jumping out of their seats with sheer delight. Spectators commented that even the popcorn vendors had to up their game to keep pace with the excitement that felt reminiscent of a carnival on the court.

As the playoffs continue, this performance not only sets an audacious expectation for what may come, but it makes one question: Are we looking at a new team dynamic that favors the thrill of scoring, or are the Thunder merely showing off before realization dawns and they pivot back to a more balanced approach? Time will tell, but for now, offensive fireworks have taken center stage in Oklahoma City, and we’re all invited to the show.