I guess the Sonics are just a streaky team. After finally ending the a 14 game losing streak Tuesday night against the San Antonio Spurs (minus Tony Parker), the Sonics are officially on a tear, beating the Cleveland Cavs (minus LeBron James) 101-95. Despite the relatively close final score, the Sonics controlled the game, opening up a 16 point lead in the first quarter, outscoring the Cavs 40-24. The Sonics' replicated Tuesday night's formula, with Kevin Durant leading the way with 24 points on 10-16 shooting, aided by Chris Wilcox (18 and 13), Jeff Green (17 points on 8-8 shooting), and Kurt Thomas (16 and 6).
Some might say that the Sonics looked out, facing the Cavs while they were missing their best player (and the best player in the NBA). But the fact of the matter is, that the Sonics shot over 56% as a team and dished out a remarkable 34 assists on 44 made baskets. In fact, the Sonics had more assists than the Cavs had made baskets, which is something that rarely happens. Earl Watson had a typical 2-6 shooting night, but more for made up for it with 12 assists. Kevin Durant continued his trend of filling up the stat sheet, adding 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. He did have 5 turnovers in this game, but it turned out to be of little consequence.
It's hard to imagine ending a month with a 2-13 record and momentum, but that's exactly what the Sonics have done in halting their painful, PAINFUL, losing streak, and then beating both of the 2007 NBA Finals participants. The Sonics open up February with 2 more winnable games at home vs. the Knicks and Chicago, before hitting the road for games vs. the Kings and Suns. I'm trying not to read too much into the last two wins, both of which were against teams missing a key player (and in the case of Cleveland, the league MVP), but you have to figure the Sonics are good for a win vs. the Knicks, and at least 50/50 vs. the Bulls.
One last note: KD might be turning the corner. Watch out NBA.
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