Or in the case of the Detroit Pistons, a fourth quarter they would soon like to forget. Kevin Durant scored at will, and Oklahoma City pulled away for an 89-79 payback victory. The Thunder notched their second win in a row and fourth of January, matching the total of the first two months combined.
OKC used an overpowering rebound advantage and more free throw chances to dismantle Detroit. The veteran Pistons squad was only down four entering the final quarter, but they managed only 12 points in a lopsided effort. Jeff Green and Russell Westbrook made only four of 26 shot attempts, but Durant did the rest.
He poured in 32 points and was able to abuse anyone Detroit put in front of him. Making a strong case for an All-Star bid, Durant's game enabled reserve Chris Wilcox to re-introduce himself to the home fans. Wilcox filled in for an ailing Nick Collison and took full advantage of the opportunity.
Wilcox may and may not end the season with the Thunder, but he was a huge reason the Pistons went home unhappy. While Detroit's big men were in foul trouble, Wilcox picked up the slack with 17 points and 11 rebounds. A prospective team may have taken notice as well, since there isn't room for both Wilcox and Collison.
Tomorrow's contest will be the toughest of the three home games, with superstar Dwayne Wade coming to town. OKC is playing as well as they have all year, and it is time to see just how good the new and improved Thunder are.
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