While Holmgren was unable to take the floor and impact the game with his two-way presence, Thunder star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander still credited the big man for the crucial NBA Cup quarterfinal victory, telling reporters after the 118-104 win that Holmgren's mere presence made on impact on the team.

Over six months later, the rotten taste from the Oklahoma City Thunder's 2024 playoff exit still lingers on their tongue. While not exactly an eye for an eye, OKC's statement win over the Dallas Maverick to boot them out of the NBA Cup was a therapeutic experience.

Alexander’s superstar sins were forgiven.  Just days after the Thunder guard was stunned by the Pelicans in Saturday’s second half, Gilgeous-Alexander's mistakes and mortality were washed away.

Guards Lu Dort and Cason Wallace started alongside All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the Thunder's NBA Cup quarter-final matchup against the Mavericks. Gilgeous-Alexander credited Wallace, who isn't an everyday starter, for adjusting for Tuesday night's elimination game.

In a battle of the two hottest teams and two of the biggest stars in the league, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stole the show with 39 points to lead the Thunder past the Mavericks 118-104 to advance to the NBA Cup semifinals.

The Thunder will need any advantage Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can give OKC Tuesday night when the Mavericks visit Paycom Center for the NBA Cup quarterfinals.

This is not the playoffs, nor is it revenge for last postseason when Dallas eliminated OKC, but it shows how the Thunder have grown.

The only commonality between the Oklahoma City Thunder's 118-104 NBA Cup quarterfinal win over the Dallas Mavericks and the rest of their regular-season schedule is they count the same towards the standings.

Chet Holmgren made a sideline appearance during the OKC Thunder's 118-104 home win over Dallas on Tuesday in the NBA Cup quarterfinals.