Atlanta sputtered down the stretch, as they failed to secure a season sweep over home standing Northwest Division leader Oklahoma City.
Though Atlanta’s Kent Bazemore poured in 8 of his team-high 22 points in the first frame, Atlanta was outscored by OKC 35-28 heading into the second stanza.
Atlanta entered the half down 11, as the terrific triumvirate of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and Serge Ibaka scored 18 of Oklahoma City’s 25 second quarter points.
The Hawks made a hard-charge in the third to cut the Thunder lead to one, with 5:09 remaining in the quarter.