Oklahoma City's dream of a perfect post-season is now over. The Thunder fell to the Lakers 99-96 on Friday night, dropping Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals, and losing their first game of the 2012 post-season in the process.
The Thunder did not have an answer for superstar Kobe Bryant, who scored 31 points and grabbed seven rebounds while dishing out six assists. Kevin Durant did do all that he could, scoring 31 points while grabbing five rebounds. Durant also added one assist.
If the Thunder are to clinch the series at home, without needing a Game 7, they'll need to defeat the Lakers in Game 4, and take a commanding 3-1 series lead.
Game 4 of the Oklahoma City/Los Angeles series will be held on Saturday, as part of a doubleheader at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. CT, 7:30 p.m. locally in Los Angeles.
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