By Kyle Soppe
Kevin Durant and the Thunder have the top mark in the NBA at 29-7, and it is by no mistake. This is an elite team that can score with the best of them, and while the defense isn’t perfect, this offense can carry this team to a title. OKC came from behind to beat the “good” version of the Orlando Magic, 105-102.
Kevin Durant poured in 18 of his 38 points in a 35-21 fourth quarter that determined the result. He canned five triples, tying a season high. He has made 25 three pointers in his last eight games, by far his best eight game streak of the season. He’s reached the 30 point plateau in 10 of his last 18 games. In 15 of those games, the reigning scoring champ has logged at least 38 minutes. He can play all day, and his young legs are a reason to like the Thunder in the postseason.
The Thunder’s version of a “Big Three” (Durant, Westbrook, Harden) combined for 80 points, and were the only players to score more than six points. One downside to this offensive juggernaut is their inability to create for each other (they rank 27th in the NBA in assists per game). But their outstanding trio passes the ball amongst themselves just fine, as they recorded 94.7% of the Thunder’s assists.
Westbrook attempted 10 free throws for the fifth time this season, and OKC has won every one of them. His two turnovers tied a season low, and moved the Thunder to a 9-1 mark when he keeps his turnover number under three.
Serge Ibaka swatted three more shots, giving him multiple blocked shots in 14 of his last 16 games.
Dwight Howard scored 33 points and pulled down “only” nine rebounds. Last night marked the first time this season in which Howard has scored at least 28 points, but not notched a double double. For an elite player, Howard’s shot attempts aren’t what you’d expect. He attempted 20 field goals against OKC, only the third time this season in which he has tallied at least 20 attempts.
The Magic starting five score 90 points, with every player notching at least 11 points.
Earl Clark led all players with five personal fouls, but played less than 11 minutes. Sixteen players were on the court longer and recorded as many or fewer fouls. Clark did manage to block as many shots as all other Magic players in his limited time.
Hedo Tukoglu attempted only six shots, the fourth time in which he has failed to get off at least seven shots. The Magic are 1-3 in such games.
Ryan Anderson settled into his spot behind the line, and jacked up seven three point attemptes. He has now taken at least four threes in all but five games this season.
The Magic took/made more three pointers and two pointers, registered more rebounds/assists, and turned the ball over less often, yet they were saddled with the L. Great teams find a way to win, and that’s what OKC is.
Eleven NBA games and the first day of the women’s A-10 tournament today, just a great day for any hoops fan.
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