The Thunder currently lead the Clippers, 51-43, midway through yet another push-and-shove affair, but L.A. is hanging in despite OKC feeling in control of the game. The Clips shot only 39 percent from the floor, but they remain within eight points because of the 12 Thunder turnovers in the first half.
Clippers vs. Thunder score: Thunder in control, up 51-43 on Clippers
Oklahoma City held Los Angeles to just 38 percent shooting, but they committed 12 turnovers in the first half and allowed Chris Paul and Co. to stick around.
Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
The matchup between Oklahoma City and L.A. has become one of the most enjoyable, physical rivalries in the NBA. And after their previous meeting, where Serge Ibaka and Matt Barnes were ejected for fighting, the tension has only increased.
Oklahoma City has been in control for much of the game, but if it continues to turn the ball over there could be problems. Los Angeles is one of the league’s best teams in turning loose balls into quick points on the other end, something they did not do in the first half. It’s difficult to keep them down all night, though.
Kevin Durant leads all scorers with 16 points, while Chris Paul is pacing the Clippers with 11 points of his own.
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