OKC Thunder: Kendrick Perkins tells critics 'check my winning percentage'

Following an inspired effort against Jazz center Al Jefferson, Perkins was asked about his critics who have questioned his play this year.

“They didn't have to go through two off-season surgeries, either,” Perkins said. “I mean, they're going to say what they want to say. But at the end of the day I know what I'm doing. So whatever. Just check my winning percentage since I been here.”

Perkins scored 12 points with six rebounds, five assists, three blocks and one steal in the Thunder's 106-94 win against the Jazz. It was the first time in Perkins' career that he's compiled a stat line reaching those marks in each of those categories. He said the performance could be a confidence-builder as he continues to work his way back to where he wants to be.

“Yeah,” he said. “It's just a month back really playing basketball. Coach said it's going to take about five to six weeks for me to really get my rhythm back.

“I'm just trying to do my job, man. It's not a team where I'm going to be coming out here getting 10-plus points a night. I know that. So I just try to find different ways to get involved in the game, whether it's picking up full court with (Russell Westbrook) to locking up the best post player that they got on their team. So I just try to come out and have an effect on the game.”

ONE UP, ONE DOWN?

The Thunder on Saturday recalled DeAndre Liggins from the Tulsa 66ers, bringing him back after three games in the NBA D-League.

While on assignment, Liggins averaged 11.7 points on 54.5 percent shooting, as well as eight rebounds, seven assists and 1.7 steals in 38.7 minutes. He recorded a triple-double in the 66ers opening night victory over Texas, posting 15 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists.