Thunder beat Grizzlies by 51 points (131-80): What’s the biggest win in NBA playoffs history?

The Oklahoma City Thunder delivered the blowout everyone anticipated before the playoffs even began, dismantling the Memphis Grizzlies in dominant fashion. As the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and one of the NBA’s top teams this season, the Thunder lived up to expectations with a commanding 51-point win, one of the blowout wins in NBA playoffs history.

With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge, the Thunder made a powerful statement to open the playoffs. Their blowout win over the Grizzlies in Game 1 of the first round wasn’t just dominant, it now ranks as the fifth-largest margin of victory in NBA playoff history.

The performance sparked memories of other legendary postseason routs, such as the Los Angeles Lakers’ 56-point win over the Golden State Warriors in 1973, a game led by the iconic Jerry West. Oklahoma City’s display reminded fans that history can repeat itself, with a new generation of stars.

The Thunder’s performance came just seven points shy of tying the biggest blowout win in the NBA playoffs history. That mark, 58 points, is jointly held by the Denver Nuggets in 2009 (vs. New Orleans Hornets) and the Minneapolis Lakers in 1956 (vs. St. Louis Hawks).

Chauncey Billups #7 of the Denver Nuggets watches as James Posey #41 of the New Orleans Hornets falls to the ground in Game Four of the Western Conference Quarterfinals during the 2009 NBA Playoffs at New Orleans Arena on April 27, 2009 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Top 7 blowout wins in NBA playoffs history

While one game stands out for tying the record for the largest margin of victory in NBA playoff history, there have been several other lopsided matchups that left a lasting impression on fans. From historic dominance to unforgettable performances, these are the top seven blowout wins in NBA playoff history, and yes, the Thunder have now earned their spot on the list.

see also

Anthony Edwards reflects on Timberwolves defeating Lakers in the Game 1: ‘We’re not supposed to be here’

1. DEN at NOH, 2009 1st Round Game 4 (58 points)
2. MNL vs. STL, 1956 Div. Semis Game 2 (58 points)
3. LAL at GSW, 1973 Conf. Semis Game 3 (56 points)
4. CHI at MIL, 2015 1st Round Game 6 (54 points)
5. OKC at MEM, 2025 1st Round Game 1 (51 points)
6. MIL vs. SFW, 1971 Conf. Semis Game 5 (50 points)
7. ORL vs. BOS, 1995 1st Round Game 1 (47 points)

Thunder join elite company with historic point differential

At the end of the regular season, the Thunder matched a milestone previously held by the 1971–72 Lakers, finishing with a 68–14 record and a remarkable +10.55 average point differential. Of the top 10 teams in league history with the highest point differentials, six went on to win the NBA title that same season. Will the Thunder be the next to follow suit?