Thunder make quick work of Grizzlies, complete sweep

If there was any doubt about the top-seeded Thunder coming into the playoffs, it’s been swept away over the course of their quick first-round series.

The Oklahoma City Thunder made quick work of the Memphis Grizzlies, downing them 117-115 in Game 4 to complete a four-game sweep and become the first team to advance to the second round.

Hamilton, Ont. native Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had his best game of the post-season so far, finishing with a game-high 38 points on solid efficiency.

It was a close game up until the fourth quarter, with the Grizzlies entering the frame only down three points. However, the Thunder pulled away with a 14-7 run to start the quarter and used their league-best defence to hold onto the lead.

Despite a strong 30-point performance from understudy point guard Scotty Pippen Jr., the Grizzlies were unable to cope with the loss of superstar Ja Morant, who suffered a hip contusion in Game 3.

Canadian big man Zach Edey finished with eight points, eight rebounds and a game-high seven blocks before fouling out of the losing effort.

The Thunder now await the winner of the series between the Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers currently hold a 2-1 series lead, with Game 4 taking place later on Saturday.