Thunder pull ahead of Lakers in Game 2, seize 2-0 series edge
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Oklahoma City’s depth proved decisive Wednesday night, lifting the Thunder to a 125-107 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers and a 2-0 advantage in their first-round playoff matchup.
The game turned early in the third quarter when All-NBA guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was whistled for his fourth foul and headed to the bench. Instead of slipping, the Thunder uncorked a 22-4 burst that flipped a three-point deficit into a double-digit cushion before Gilgeous-Alexander returned in the fourth.
“They strung together stops and kept the offense humming,” Gilgeous-Alexander told ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. “I have complete faith in this group—whoever is on the court can finish the job.”
Bench brigade sparks run
Guard Ajay Mitchell orchestrated the pivotal stretch, scoring seven of his 20 points and handing out three assists while Gilgeous-Alexander watched. Fellow reserve Jared McCain added 18 points in 18 minutes, drilling four three-pointers.
“Every player is ready, and everyone trusts each other,” Mitchell said. “When you check in, you play with confidence because the whole team believes you will contribute.”
Rookie center Chet Holmgren stood out on both ends, finishing with 22 points, nine rebounds, four steals and two blocks. His rim protection and timely baskets restored a double-figure margin in the fourth quarter. “Anytime McCain shoots, I expect it to fall,” Holmgren noted, praising the rookie guard’s poise.
Lakers’ stars can’t close gap
Austin Reaves poured in 31 points to pace Los Angeles, while LeBron James supplied 23. The Lakers, however, could not slow Oklahoma City’s balanced attack, allowing 60 second-half points.
“Our guys look at the challenges of the game as opportunities,” Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault said. “They attack every one of them.”
Game 3 shifts to Los Angeles, where the Lakers will try to halt the Thunder’s momentum and avoid a 3-0 series hole.
Source: Hoops Wire
