Kevin Durant scored a game-high 21 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder past the Dallas Mavericks by a score of 106-92 in the preseason opener for both teams. Dallas played without both Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd who sat out the game as they prepare for what will be a grueling regular season.
The Thunder shot the ball extremely well in the game hitting 56 percent of their shots from the floor. They built a double digit lead midway through the second quarter only to see the Mavericks close the half with a 14-5 run. However, the Thunder took control once again in the third quarter outscoring Dallas 32-19. Dallas made a late run but never did seriously threaten again in the game.
Of Durant's 21 points, 13 came from the free throw line. He finished 4-5 from the field in the game. James Harden came off the bench to score 16 points while Russell Westbrook and Daequan Cook each chipped in 12. The Thunder win despite turning the ball over 25 times in the game.
Dallas was led by Rodrique Beaubois and Dominique Jones who each finished with 17 points. Newcomers Lamar Odom and Vince Carter finished with 14 and nine points respectively. Dallas shot just 38 percent from the field and were out rebounded 45-33 in the game.
For more on the Dallas Mavericks and the Oklahoma City Thunder, be sure to check out Mavs Moneyball and Welcome To Loud City.