The Oklahoma City Thunder Win 8th Straight Game In Big 105-97 Home Win Over Portland Trail Blazers.
4 weeks ago when Russell Westbrook went down to a knee surgery, many people (including us) expected the Oklahoma City Thunder to in the Western Conference standings; but most of all, be discourage by the injury. That however has not been the case, as Kevin Durant is currently playing the best basketball of tender career. Since Westbrook’s absence, he’s been averaging over 36 points a game consistently and continued that trend tonight in a big west showdown.
The Portland Trail Blazers were guest last night at Chesapeake Energy Arena, with both teams had a 31-10 record beforehand. We will vouch for the Blazers, with Nicolas Batum having an injured finger when shooting to give Durant rest on the defensive end.
Video highlights and more after the jump.
Portland kept a close lead throughout most of the first three quarters, highlighted by the inside dominance of LaMarcus Aldridge. He doubled output in both points and rebounds over Serge Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins, but Durant would obviously make up for their lack of output. The second highest scorer on OKC was Reggie Jackson, who had 15 points.
The story throughout much of the 2nd half was Durant going 6-7 from beyond-the-arch, to virtually become on fire. He was pressured with double teaming and trapping, but still was able to break free and score baskets at free will.
The Thunder are now only a half game back out of the West’s top spot to the San Antonio Spurs, who they will be playing Wednesday night. We’re sure this will now be the game of the week, following Golden State’s initial horrendous play on Monday night against the Indiana Pacers. Fantasy users, we encourage you to keep enjoying Kevin Durant’s play for January while he’s still able to dominate the ball.