Shai helps Thunder stretch win steak

MIAMI (AFP) — Reigning National Basketball Association (NBA) Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander fought through illness to score 40 points and lead Oklahoma City to a 10th consecutive victory on Wednesday while Detroit’s win streak was snapped at 13 games.

Gilgeous-Alexander, questionable with illness until game time, added six rebounds, six assists and three steals as the defending champion Thunder became only the fifth team in league history to start a season 18-1 or better by outlasting Minnesota, 113-105.

“We’re just taking it day by day, taking the challenge by the challenge,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.

“Whatever it is, we find a way to come out on top and I’m impressed by this group’s ability to do so.”

The Pistons, however, had their victory run ended at Boston, where a missed Cade Cunningham free throw in the final seconds proved pivotal in a 117-114 loss.