Despite leading by 18 entering the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic, the Oklahoma City Thunder managed to keep the charge at bay and win, 97-89, thanks to 30 points from Kevin Durant. Durant has led the NBA in scoring the past two seasons, and started his quest to secure that title a third year in a row in style, adding five points and six assists to his 30-point outburst.
Magic Vs. Thunder Final Score: Thunder Hold On To Beat Magic, 97-89
Dwight Howard scored just three points in the second half, playing under more of a microscope than perhaps ever before with all of the trade rumors swirling, but did snag 15 rebounds and had two blocks in the losing effort. He shot just 4-12 from the field, an atrocious effort for someone who takes all of his shots within inches of the rim.
Ryan Anderson, starting at power forward, had 25 points and 10 rebounds for the Magic, hitting six three-pointers in his role as a true stretch 4. James Harden scored 19 points and six rebounds off the bench, keying the Thunder's huge advantage when the reserves came in.
For more on these two teams, visit Thunder blog Welcome To Loud City and Magic blog Orlando Pinstriped Post.
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