Title-chasing Oklahoma City Thunder face NBA sanctions after gameday decision

Despite their top players missing, the Thunder still beat the Blazers by 107-89 as Aaron Wiggins put up 30 points and Jaylin Williams recorded his first career triple-double.

The NBA announced ahead the player participation rule ahead of the 2023-24 season in attempt to stop teams from regularly resting their best players.

The Utah Jazz violated this policy and received a $100,000 fine earlier this week for sitting star forward Lauri Markkanen for multiple games.

The league is also investigating the Philadelphia 76ers for the absences of players such as Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, according to ESPN.

The Thunder rested their five starters ahead of three crunch games.

As they were scheduled to play the Denver Nuggets back to back on March 9 and March 11 before playing the Boston Celtics on March 12.

The Thunder emerged victorious in their first match against the Nuggets in a 127-103 win before losing to them in the second match in a 140-127 loss.

They also rallied to edge out the Celtics in a 118-112 win as Gilgeous-Alexander put up 34 points in another stellar performance.

The 26-year-old is averaging 32.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.2 assists and is set to win the scoring the title this season.

It puts the Canadian in strong contention to win the NBA's MVP award this year with his side also set to top the Western Conference table.

His only competition is Nikola Jokic, who is averaging 29 points, 12.9 rebounds, 10.4 assists this season.