The Thunder improve to 2-0 this season after winning a close one against the Timberwolves.
Kevin Durant scored 33 and Russell Westbrook added 28 in front of packed Minnesota crowd eager to see newcomers Ricky Rubio, Derrick Williams, and J.J. Barea.
Only three Thunder players scored over 6 points tonight, Harden being the third with 16. The Thunder had a 10 point lead midway through the third, but were unable to pull away from Minnesota.
Michael Beasley tied the game at 98-98 with 2 minutes remaining. After a couple of baskets, Derrick Williams made a layup to bring Minnesota within 2. Westbrook missed a jumper to give the Timberwolves had the chance to win the game. However Michael Beasley missed the potential game winning three and Kendrick Perkins pulled down the rebound. The game wasn't over until Perkins made 2 free throws with 3 seconds remaining to make it a two possession ball game.
The Thunder had to deal with an entourage of talented point guards tonight. However, it was the Timberwolves' forwards, Michael Beasley, 24 points, and Kevin Love, 22 points who lead Minnesota tonight.
Ricky Rubio hardly disappointed in his debut. The Spaniard was able to create some nice opportunities for his teammates, and made some passes that were just incredible. The Thunder once again had no answer for J.J. Barea who had 14 points on the night. He looked much like he did in last year's Western Conference Finals..
For the Thunder it's their second quality win in as many days. The Timberwolves might not be a playoff team yet, but they certainly have the building blocks in place. OKC will get tomorrow off before facing the Memphis Grizzles on Wednesday.
Thunder Wonder: Kevin Durant 33 points, 5 rebounds
Thunder Down Under: James Harden 16 points, 6 rebounds
Thunder Blunder: Serge Ibaka 6 points, 6 rebounds
Thunder Plunder: Kevin Love 22 points, 12 rebounds
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