Shai guts out with a fine 40

OKC streak hits 10, Pistons’ ends at 13

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Reigning 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 champions 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.

Jaylen Brown scored 33 points and grabbed 10 rebounds while Derrick White added a season-high 27 points, 25 in the second half, as Boston improved to 10-8 on the US Thanksgiving holiday eve.

“Really makes a statement,’ White said. “It’s fun. We can enjoy Thanksgiving then we've got another challenge”