Mike Muscala returned from concussion protocol just in time for the time Oklahoma City Thunder needed him most.
With centers Steven Adams and Nerlens Noel out, Muscala was thrust into the starting lineup against the Washington Wizards on Sunday afternon.
He was a key part of a 10-0 run to start the game that propelled the Thunder to a 64-48 halftime lead.
Muscala had 11 points in the first half, one of three Thunder players to reach double-digits.
Forward Danilo Gallinari had 12 points. He and Muscala combined for every point in the 10-0 Oklahoma City run and made five total 3-pointers.
Off the bench, Darius Bazley led the way with 14 points in 12 minutes. He was 5-for-8 from the field with two 3-pointers.
The main reason for the Thunder’s lead, which is often the case, was Chris Paul. While Paul only had five points, he was a plus-22 in the half and there was a clear decline in play when he was off the court.
He checked out midway through the first quarter with a 13-point lead, and the Wizards promptly went on an 8-0 run.
He re-entered with about 30 seconds to go in the first and had a quick assist.
Paul had five assists, two steals and two blocks, and his only turnover came at the end of the half when he was trying to push it upcourt for one final basket at the buzzer.
As a team, the Thunder only had five turnovers in the half, and the Wizards did not score a point off any.
The Thunder had no issues with the Wizards in the first half. If they can keep the lead large, starters may be able to get a little rest in the second half before the second game of the back-to-back, which is against the Phoenix Suns on Monday afternoon.
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