In a convincing performance, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder (12-6) to a resounding 133-110 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers (11-9) on Thursday night, scoring 33 points.
The Thunder, bouncing back from close losses to the Philadelphia 76ers and Minnesota Timberwolves, saw significant contributions from Jalen Williams with 21 points and Chet Holmgren adding 18 points.
Despite Anthony Davis leading the Lakers with 31 points and 14 rebounds, and LeBron James contributing 21 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, the Purple and Gold struggled to contain the Thunder’s offensive onslaught.
The injury-plagued Lakers, missing key players like Cam Reddish, Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Gabe Vincent, faced challenges finding their rhythm and determining their strengths and weaknesses.
Although the Lakers took an early 14-point lead in the first quarter, the Thunder seized control in the second, outscoring the Lakers 42-23 and heading into halftime with a 72-60 advantage.
The Thunder extended their lead in the third quarter, entering the final quarter with a commanding 108-88 advantage, with Chet Holmgren contributing 10 points on efficient shooting.
