Thunder blow out Rockets, 113-92, in Russell Westbrook’s return to OKC

Westbrook scored a game-high 34 points in his first game back since being traded to Houston, but it was not enough to take down the Thunder.

Pregame was all about Russell Westbrook. After tip-off, it was all about the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Westbrook scored a game-high 34 points on Thursday night, but it was not enough to overcome a balanced scoring attack from OKC, who had five players in double-digits.

Danilo Gallinari, who was initially listed as out before being upgraded to questionable around 2 p.m. Thursday afternoon, led the Thunder with 23. Gallo was able to take advantage of mismatches against the Rockets’ defense, something that was noticed by both Chris Paul and Erik Horne of The Athletic.

Gallinari also pulled down 11 rebounds as part of a double-double.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 20 in the win, with Paul, Dennis Schroder and Steven Adams adding 18, 16, and 15, respectively.

Fellow former Thunder guard, James Harden, was also in double-digits for Houston. The Beard had 17 on the night but did not play in the fourth quarter.

Westbrook was welcomed back inside Chesapeake Energy Arena with open arms on Thursday.

The Thunder showed a touching tribute video prior to tip-off and Westbrook received a loud standing ovation when he was announced during the starting lineups.

Despite no longer being in OKC, Westbrook kept his traditional pregame routine, running to the corner of the court, much to the delight of fans.

He was once again greeted with cheers and an ovation after the game was over and he walked off the court.

With the win, Oklahoma City improves to 21-16 and 12-6 at home. They’ve won back-to-back games after falling to the 76ers and are winners of seven of their last eight.