Kiwi centre Steven Adams had a quiet night for the Oklahoma City Thunder, but that didn't hurt his side as they claimed a narrow 109-106 victory over Western conference rivals the Utah Jazz on Wednesday (NZT) at Chesapeake Arena.
Adams had a tough night shooting, missing five of his six shot attempts for a total of two points along with six rebounds, two assists and blocks.
His teammate Russell Westbrook scored 43 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his 30th triple-double of the season, leading his side for a fourth straight win.
The Thunder started the game hot, landing their first 12 three-points to take a 61-53 lead at halftime. The home side continued their good shooting in the third and led 86-79 heading into the fourth. The Jazz rallied back and took the lead with 48 seconds remaining, but Westbrook hit two late shots to set up the win.
Gordon Hayward led the Jazz in scoring with 19 while Rodney Hood added 18.
Westbrook said after the game that hitting late shots has let down the Thunder in the past.
"Many years, that was our problem, being able to execute and get the shots we wanted to," Westbrook said.
"I think that's a part of my job, is to make sure we execute down the stretch."
The Thunder's next match is against the Portland Trailblazers on Friday afternoon (NZT).
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