Oklahoma City Thunder Blows Big Lead Against Lakers

Originally Published: Dec 23, 2009 12:13 AM CDT

Andrew Topps
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

LOS ANGELES -- Oklahoma City suffered a crushing 111-108 defeat against the Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday night. The Thunder has lost five of its last six.

Kevin Durant had 30 points, but fouled out with less than 70 seconds left in the game. Russell Westbrook added 21 points and 13 assists while Thabo Sefolosha chipped-in 16.

Oklahoma City took a 53-41 lead with 4:13 left in the second quarter.

But Los Angeles went on an 18-5 run to open the second half. The Lakers outscored the Thunder 34-21 in the third quarter.

Oklahoma City fought back from a double-digit deficit, getting as close as one point twice in the fourth quarter, but was not able to close the gap. Westbrook could not connect on his last second 3-point attempt. The loss marks the first time this season Oklahoma City’s lost when scoring 100 or more points.

Kobe Bryant finished with a game-high 40 points. Pau Gasol had 15 points and 11 rebounds, Derek Fisher added 15 points. The Lakers lead the season series 3-0.