OKC Thunder 108 — Dallas Mavericks 89
When it was announced Dallas coach Rick Carlisle was sitting all five of his starters tonight–this one figured to be an easy one-sided win for the Thunder even with their recent mood swings of apathy and complacency. One of those where you felt cheated for buying tickets to see a high level NBA game.
But thanks to some showmanship by gritty Dallas guard J.J. Barea and veteran forward Charlie Villanueva this one at least remained fun to watch.
With 5:17 left in the second period, Russell Westbrook and Barea became entangled, expletives were were exchanged, and somehow Charlie Villanueva found himself trying to choke Serge Ibaka in the aftermath. Villanueva was ejected and double techs were given to Barea and Westbrook.
Not long after—Barea instigated Westbrook again, and again Westbrook was given a tech while Barea was given nothing. Good, smart hockey-basketball by one J.J. Barea. Westbrook done for the night, Barea still in the game. OKC needs a player like Barea..seriously. OKC is in serious need of another player with an edge besides Westbrook. I just love Barea, Patrick Beverly as well. You need some energy players with edge.
But it mattered not one bit in this monumental mismatch between OKC starters and Dallas subs as OKC easily cruised to an all smiles feel good win over the Mavericks.
It was 65-44 at the half and the game was basically over.
Serge Ibaka is my No. 1 Star of the Game with 20 points, 11 rebounds,, and 3 blocked shots.
Durant doubled-doubled with 29 points and 11 rebounds. The curious Dion Waiters had his periodic good game scoring 18 points and dishing 5 assists. OKC’s bench was much better as a result and Cam Payne in 25 minutes had 10 points and 3 assists. OKC’s bench had 44 points on the night.
Andre Roberson scored nine points in the first quarter and never scored again, while Russell Westbrook for only the second time in his NBA career went scoreless.
This win means nothing except OKC improves to 28-12 and for the first time in a while actually looked engaged and having some fun.
Minnesota on Friday evening at Chesapeake Energy Arena.
Mike Jackson