The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their impressive playoff run by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 125-107 on Thursday night. This victory gives them a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference semifinal series.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren both contributed 22 points to the Thunder's win. Ajay Mitchell added 20 points, while Jaren McCain scored 18 as Oklahoma City improved its playoff record to 6-0.
The Lakers were without scoring champion Luka Doncic, who is sidelined with a strained left hamstring. They also missed forward Jarred Vanderbilt, who dislocated his pinkie finger in Game 1.
Despite the absences, Lakers guard Austin Reaves stepped up, scoring 31 points on 10-of-16 shooting. LeBron James added 23 points, but it was not enough to secure a win.
Turning Point in the Third Quarter
The game turned in the third quarter when Gilgeous-Alexander was called for a flagrant foul, leaving him sidelined with four fouls. At that moment, the Lakers led 65-61.
However, the Thunder seized control, outscoring the Lakers 32-15 during the period. They ended the quarter with a commanding 93-80 lead.
Though the Lakers managed to cut the deficit to five points in the fourth, the Thunder responded and pulled away for the win.
With the series now shifting to Los Angeles, the Lakers will aim to bounce back in Game 3 on Saturday.