Oklahoma City Thunder lose to swarming Charlotte Hornets 123-112

Russell Westbrook’s struggles continued as his Oklahoma City Thunder lost to the Charlotte Hornets, 123-112 Wednesday night.

Westbrook finished with a gaudy stat-line consisting of 33 points, 15 rebounds, and eight assists. However, the 6’3 guard shot a meager 10-of-31 from the field, and made just two of twelve three-point attempts.

As a team, Oklahoma City floundered late. The Thunder was limited to 30% fourth-quarter shooting, as Charlotte went on a decisive 29-15 run with 7:32 remaining in the contest.

Nicholas Batum led the Hornets in scoring. The 6’8 swing-man amassed 14 of his 28 points in the final frame. Overall, Charlotte benefited from a massive -plus 21 free-throws made advantage.

With all other factors being close to equal, the Hornets capitalized on 40 FTA’s made, as the Thunder committed an unsightly 31 personal fouls.

Amid Westbrook’s slump, Enes Kanter (22), Steven Adams (18), and Victor Oladipo (18) worked hard to keep OKC close.

However, the bolstering performances of Kemba Walker (20), Frank Kaminsky (17), and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (14) ultimately tilted the contest in Charlotte’s favor.

With the win, the Southeast Division leading Hornets improve to 20-16. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City drops to 21-15 after losing three of four.

The Thunder take on the streaking Houston Rockets tomorrow night at 7 PM ET.