Oklahoma City Thunder roster rumors 2016: Kevin Durant efficient in return from toe injury

Wikimedia Commons/Keith Allison

After sitting out Monday's match with the Sacramento Kings due to a sprained right big toe, Oklahoma City Thunder star forward Kevin Durant returned Wednesday and helped put the Memphis Grizzlies away for a 112-94 victory. 

Durant's injury prevented him from playing versus the Kings and even before the game with Memphis, it was uncertain if he will see action. 

However, the former Most Valuable Player (MVP) returned to the court and in 33 minutes led the Thunder in scoring with 26 points. 

Along with his offensive production, Durant also grabbed a season-high 17 rebounds, with three assists, one steal, and one block. 

However, Durant did not have a hot start shooting 2-of-10 from the field in the first half before going 7-of-8 in the second half and scoring 17 of his total 26 points, ESPN reported. 

"I missed some good shots in the first half," Durant said following the win over the Grizzlies according to the report. 

The 27-year-old added, "I came back in the second half and I told myself every shot has to be -- just -- I have to focus on every shot now because I missed so many early on. It could have been a 2-for-17 night for me, so I tried to turn it into something good in the second half."

Durant also acknowledged the Thunder's training staff and said he is happy to be playing again. 

Aiding Durant in the victory was one half of the Thunder's duo, All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook. Like Durant, Westbrook also had a great night and was explosive with his attacks to the basket including an amazing Eurostep move in the first half. 

Westrbrook finished the night with 20 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and two steals. 

The win improved Oklahoma City's record to 25-11 to sit third in the Western Conference standings, just behind the conference and league-leading Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs.