Preview: Lakers at Oklahoma City

The Lakers (22-43) visit Oklahoma City (47-17) on Thursday night and a chance to upset twice in a row one of the top teams in the NBA.

It took a career-high 42 points from Jodie Meeks, but the Lakers stunned the Thunder, 114-110, on Sunday.

Without Jordan Hill (knee), Nick Young (knee), Steve Nash (nerve root irritation) and Kobe Bryant (knee), the Lakers were lucky to get the win Sunday and the Thunder won’t take them lightly again.

Key matchup

Russell Westbrook is one of the league’s most dynamic point guards but Meeks did a credible job defending him Sunday.

In 30 1/2 minutes, Westbrook scored 20 points but was only seven of 23 from the field, including two of 10 from three-point range. He had eight turnovers to match his eight assists.

Meeks was a force, scoring 20 points in the third quarter. He finished with four steals and made all 14 of his free throws.

Kevin Durant is always a problem for just about any opponent. If the Lakers can force Westbrook into a difficult game, perhaps the Lakers can absorb what Durant brings to the table.

On Sunday, Durant had 27 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds.

X-factor

The Lakers need a strong performance from Pau Gasol in the middle.

On Sunday, Gasol had 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Although Oklahoma City matched Steven Adams against Gasol to start the game, Serge Ibaka took the assignment for significant time.

In 34 minutes, Ibaka had 21 points and 15 rebounds.

Outlook

It took a completely off-the-charts game from Meeks for the Lakers to get the win Sunday.

The Thunder won’t make the same mistakes Thursday.

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Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.