Oklahoma City Thunder defeats Cleveland Cavaliers, 103-94

Russell Westbrook scored 26 points, and Oklahoma City took advantage of LeBron James’ absence to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers, 103-94, on Thursday night in Oklahoma City.

James sat out with left knee soreness, and without him, Cleveland’s winning streak ended at eight games. Cavaliers Coach David Blatt said before the game that James would be day to day.

Westbrook made 12 of 24 shots and had eight assists and seven rebounds. Kevin Durant added 19 points for the Thunder, who have won four straight and six of seven after a 3-12 start.

Kyrie Irving scored 20 points for Cleveland, but he made just seven of 21 shots. Kevin Love had 18 points and 16 rebounds, and Tristan Thompson added 14 points and 13 rebounds for the Cavaliers.

Durant found Anthony Morrow for a three-pointer, then made a three himself to help Oklahoma City take a 78-66 lead into the fourth quarter. Cleveland made a final push, and a tip-in by Thompson cut Oklahoma City’s lead to 95-91 with two minutes to play before the Thunder held on.

Houston 113, at Sacramento (OT): James Harden scored 44 points for the Rockets, who outscored the Kings 18-14 in the extra period. Darren Collison led the Kings with 24 points.