The NBA playoffs continue, with the Oklahoma City Thunder dominating the Dallas Mavericks 131-102 behind a strong performance by Kevin Durant. After missing twenty-six shots in his previous game, Durant dropped 34 points on the Mavs. His teammate and fellow All-Star, Russell Westbrook, chipped in twenty-four points, and added fifteen assists in the Thunder’s big performance.
Thunder fans breathed a sigh of relief after seeing their team fall to the injury ridden Mavericks in Game 2. This year’s playoffs carry extra weight for Thunder fans, with Durant’s looming free-agency drawing ever closer. An early exit from the playoffs would not bode well for the Thunder’s chances to keep Durant in free-agency. With the pressure mounting on elite players to win championships, Durant may seek greener pastures in the off-season, with just about every team interested in his services.
The Dallas Mavericks grinded their way to the seventh seed this season, but they’ve been hit by the injury bug since entering the playoffs. J.J. Barea and David Lee were back for the Mavs, after they both missed time with injuries in this series. Deron Williams, however, who played through a sport’s hernia in Game 2, did not play. With a shortened roster, the Mavericks will have to overcome a difficult task to defeat the Thunder, but they will be looking to bounce back in Game 4 in front of their home crowd.