The Oklahoma City Thunder surged past the Los Angeles Lakers 131-108 on Saturday night, seizing a 3-0 lead in the Western Conference semifinals. After trailing at halftime, the reigning champions controlled the second half to extend their playoff winning streak to seven games, matching Cleveland’s run to start the 2017 postseason.
Ajay Mitchell sparked the comeback with a playoff career-high 24 points, adding 10 assists and 3 steals. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 23 points and 9 assists, while Chet Holmgren posted 18 points and 9 rebounds. Cason Wallace added 16 points, and Isaiah Joe chipped in 12 points off the bench.
The Lakers struggled to keep pace after halftime. LeBron James finished with 19 points on 7-of-19 shooting and a minus-24 plus-minus, unable to rally his team. Rui Hachimura led Los Angeles with 21 points, and Austin Reaves had 17 points and 9 assists but committed 5 turnovers. Luke Kennard scored 18 points off the bench.
Mitchell’s second-half explosion shifted the momentum, scoring 18 of his 24 points after the break. Starting in place of the injured Jalen Williams, he shouldered the offensive load and allowed Gilgeous-Alexander to conserve energy. His performance continues an impressive series, averaging 20.7 points per game.
Oklahoma City’s depth proved decisive. Before the game, Lakers coach JJ Redick noted that the Thunder have 13 players who would be top-eight in any NBA rotation. That depth was on display as Wallace scored 11 in the first quarter and the bench consistently delivered.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised his team’s competitive spirit: “I think that’s something our group takes pride in, depth and competitiveness. It’s a long season, and having multiple guys ready to step up is crucial.” With a sweep opportunity on Monday, Oklahoma City aims to close out the series and continue their title defense.
