Thunder vs Heat, final score: Oklahoma City squeaks by Miami 94-86, finally climb over .500

Box Score | Hot Hot Hoops

The Oklahoma City Thunder squeaked out a close one over the Miami Heat in a defensive slug fest 94-86. Kevin Durant led the Thunder with 19 points to go along with 8 rebounds, 8 assists, and 4 steals. Dwyane Wade paced the Heat with 18 points, but was forced into 4 turnovers by an aggressive Thunder defense. This game wasn't as much fun nor aesthetically pleasing as the previous 2, but a win is a win.

What is your initial reaction to tonight's result?

OVER .500 BABY!!

What was, overall, the main reason why the Thunder won?

Defense came up big in this one. Everyone not named Reggie Jackson and Anthony Morrow struggled offensively, so the defense really stepped up. OKC limited Miami to 38 points in the second half, and 42 percent shooting over the final 3 quarters. The Thunder also did an excellent job forcing turnovers, including 5 in a row during a stretch in the first quarter.

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Joey's Awards

Thunder Wonder: Reggie "Trade Bait" Jackson, 16 points, 7/9 shooting

Thunder Down Under: Russell Westbrook, 19 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals

Thunder Blunder: Dion Waiters, 3 points, 1-9 shooting

Thunder Plunderer: The Referees, who didn't call Dwyane Wade for clipping KD on a dunk

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Next game: Tomorrow (Wednesday, 1/21) at Washington Wizards @ 7pm CST