Bench Minutes Shift Lakers–Thunder Playoff Series When James and Gilgeous-Alexander Sit
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May 8, 2026 — The outcome of the Western Conference matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Oklahoma City Thunder has turned most dramatically during the stretches when LeBron James and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are on the bench.
An analysis of early series results shows that each club’s momentum swings sharply once its star leaves the floor, underscoring the outsized impact both players have on their respective rotations.
With the series still in progress, the brief periods of rest for James and Gilgeous-Alexander continue to loom as the decisive factor in determining which team will advance.
Source: New York Post
