Kevin Durant was looking to continue his torrid scoring pace as OKC hosted Atlanta. Over his last 10 games, KD has managed to score 30 or more points, and that includes four, 40-plus games, and a 54-point outing over that stretch. The last player to do that was Tracey McGrady way back in 2003.
It was the road team that would have the early edge, Dennis Schroeder gets into the lane and scoops it in and the ATL is up by 10 late in the first half.
The Thunder would chip-away at the lead after recess. Durant finding a wide-open Reggie Jackson, and he dials long distance, to make it a 5-point game.
OKC would try and increase the pressure defensively and get a steal. Thabo Sefolosha gets his hand in the passing lane and goes coast-to-coast. And also gets caught up with a courtside camera man.
The Hawks, though would continue to stay in front finishing the fast break to stay ahead by 8 and forcing the Thunder into a time-out.
The home team seemed to get the message, because they went on a run and were within 4 after the Serge Ibaka throwdown.
But most of their offensive strategy is get the ball to Durant and that is very wise. The three-time NBA scoring champion is able to glide to the hoop to tie things at 107, with 2 minutes to play.
Then the home side calls his number again. and he delivers to put OKC up a deuce. K-D had 13 in the final quarter.
Atlanta though still had time to equalize, and Paul Millsap is able to get the cup for a reverse lay-up and even things at 109 with 22-seconds left on the clock.
That would be too much time for Durant despite being double and finally triple teamed, he clutches up, hitting the jumper with a second and a half left. OKC wins it 111-109, and KD makes it 11-straight games of 30 or more points he had 41 to lead the Thunder to the win.