The Thunder have now won all eight playoff games this season, a remarkable feat as they head to the Western Conference finals. They will face either the Minnesota Timberwolves or the San Antonio Spurs in the next round.
Ajay Mitchell contributed 28 points, while Chet Holmgren added 16 points and 9 rebounds. Jared McCain chipped in with 13 points, showcasing the Thunder's offensive depth.
Gilgeous-Alexander expressed satisfaction with the team's performance: “We’ve done our job so far. That’s all it really means. We played at a high level and won eight tough games against really good opponents.”
The defending champions shot 51.9% from the field, compared to the Lakers' 50.7%. This season, Oklahoma City dominated Los Angeles, winning all eight meetings, including regular-season games.
For the Lakers, Austin Reaves led with 27 points, while Rui Hachimura added 25 points and 5 rebounds. The team now faces an uncertain offseason as they ponder significant changes. The article titled LeBron's Lakers Ousted from NBA Playoffs as Thunder Complete Sweep.
LeBron James, who scored 24 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, is set to become an unrestricted free agent after 23 seasons in the league. He commented, “I don’t know what the future holds for me... I have a lot of time to sit back and reflect.”
Luka Doncic's absence due to a hamstring injury, sustained earlier in the playoffs, significantly impacted the Lakers' performance. In the final moments of the game, Gilgeous-Alexander's free throws solidified the Thunder's lead.
The Lakers staged a comeback, leading 76-75 in the third quarter after a 22-9 run, but the Thunder regained control to secure the victory. Additionally, the performance of Donovan Mitchell was pivotal in a different matchup, where he scored 39 points in the second half, helping the Cavs tie the series against the Pistons 112-103.Donovan Mitchell was pivotal in a different matchup, where he scored 39 points in the second half, helping the Cavs tie the series against the Pistons 112-103.
Marami silang ibinato na depensibong hitsura sa amin, at sa tingin ko mas mabuti kaming koponan sa dulo ng serye kaysa sa simula, at iyon ay isang kredito sa kanila.
Mark Daigneault, Thunder Head Coach