Returning home for their first-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder did not serve the Dallas Mavericks well. In fact, the reigning champions, who came within four points of winning either of the first two games on the road, were simply overmatched in their own building Thursday night, falling 95-79.
And so, the young and talented Thunder seized a commanding 3-0 series lead, pushing Dallas one more defeat from extinction. To wit: No team has ever come back to win a series after losing the first trio of games.
All-star Kevin Durant, who had struggled with his shot, poured in 31 points to lead Oklahoma City. He made 11 of 15 shots after going 15-for-44 in the opening two games.
Dirk Notwitzki scored just 17 points for the Mavs, who shot just 34 per cent for the game.
Although the Thunder is in control of the series, Durant said, ”We know we haven’t done anything yet.” They get a chance to advance in Game 4 in Dallas on Saturday.
