The Los Angeles Lakers have managed to slow reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, yet they head into Monday’s Game 4 facing elimination after a 131-108 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3.
Through three games, head coach JJ Redick has assigned Marcus Smart to shadow Gilgeous-Alexander and ordered quick double-teams whenever the guard attacks. The scheme limited him to 23 points on 7-of-20 shooting Saturday, but Oklahoma City still built a commanding 3-0 first-round series lead.
The difference has come from everywhere else on the Thunder roster. Rookie guard Ajay Mitchell posted 24 points and 10 assists in Game 3, routinely taking over when Gilgeous-Alexander rested. Center Chet Holmgren contributed 18 points and nine rebounds, continuing his steady play throughout the series.
Turnovers remain the Lakers’ biggest problem. Los Angeles coughed the ball up 17 times Saturday, resulting in 30 Thunder points, according to ESPN. Oklahoma City finished with 13 more field-goal attempts, a recurring gap that has swung each game.
The Lakers have led or stayed close early in all three contests before a flurry of giveaways allowed the Thunder to seize control. “We’re winning stretches, but not the ones that count,” Redick told reporters after falling behind 3-0.
Game 4 is scheduled for Monday at Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers must deliver four mistake-free quarters to extend their season; so far, they have not managed one.
Source: Hoops Wire
