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Even without Russell Westbrook, the Thunder had too much offense and a tremendous defensive effort in the fourth quarter of Game 6. The Rockets simply weren't able to generate and convert sufficient opportunities to overcome their top-seeded opponent. Houston managed just 17 points in the final period of their season.
Through three quarters the game stayed tight with the Rockets down just one point in what seemed to be yet another scoreboard-scorching affair for these two high octane teams. Chandler Parsons and James Harden each had 20 points heading into the fourth.
But the wheels came off when it mattered most for Houston, with the Rockets managing just 17 points in their last 12 minutes of play. On the other end, superstar Kevin Durant and a shockingly resurgent Derek Fisher scored 17 of the Thunder's 25 points.
The Rockets turned the ball over 16 times in the game (compared to 10 for OKC) which led to 26 points for the Thunder.
Durant (27 points, six assists, eight rebounds) and former Rocket Kevin Martin (25 points) led the Thunder. Harden finished with 26 points and Parsons with 25 in the loss.
The Thunder will face Memphis in the second round after the Grizzlies defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 118-105 to win their series.
More to follow from the TDS staff.