Luka Doncic put on a show with a 30-point performance as the Los Angeles Lakers overwhelmed the NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder, securing a dominant 126-99 victory on Sunday.
Austin Reaves contributed 20 points, and LeBron James added 19 points along with seven assists, helping the Lakers to win their fourth game out of their last five.
On the Thunder’s side, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 26 points while Jalen Williams managed to add 16. Despite this loss, Oklahoma City still holds a two-game lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers for the league’s best record with five games remaining. Their recent back-to-back losses are only the second such occurrence this season, jeopardizing their quest for the top playoff seed and home-court advantage.
Both teams are set to face off again on Tuesday in Oklahoma City.
By the end of the first quarter, the Lakers set the pace with a 42-32 lead. A remarkable display by Doncic saw him maneuver past defenders and execute a no-look, behind-the-head pass to an open Gabe Vincent, who sank a 3-pointer, extending the Lakers’ lead to 64-42. By halftime, with 15 successful 3-pointers — a franchise record — the Lakers overwhelmed the Thunder with a 78-56 lead. This was the highest first-half point tally conceded by Oklahoma City all season. Doncic was instrumental, contributing 22 points out of which five shots were from beyond the arc, even against stringent defense.
In the third quarter, Doncic enhanced the lead to 93-67 following a skillful layup and a free throw after a foul. At the end of the third period, the Lakers were on top 103-77.
The game had a memorable close as LeBron’s son, Bronny, nailed a 3-pointer for the Lakers in the final moments.
Key game observations:
Lakers: This game showcased the immense potential when James and Doncic collaborate effectively.
Thunder: The formidable shot-making by the Lakers made defensive strategies from Oklahoma City ineffectual.
Significant play: James made a crucial steal followed by a breakaway dunk, pushing the lead to 107-83 in the fourth quarter.
Noteworthy statistic: The Thunder were held to under 100 points for the first time since mid-November.