Luka, Lakers upset NBA league-leading Thunder 126-99
With the NBA playoffs approaching, LA Lakers make a strong assertion by demolishing Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, the staff with league’s greatest file.
Luka Doncic scored 30 factors because the Los Angeles Lakers produced a devastating show of long-range taking pictures to attain a stunning 126-99 blowout over the No.1 ranked Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder.
A heavyweight showdown between the Western Convention leaders and the third-placed Lakers was successfully settled within the first half, as Los Angeles rattled in 15 three-pointers – a franchise file – to open up a 78-56 lead on the finish of the second quarter.
The Lakers by no means seemed like surrendering that hefty double-digit cushion as they closed out a cushty win to silence the Oklahoma Metropolis residence crowd.
The win noticed the Lakers edge nearer to securing one of many 4 remaining computerized playoff spots within the West after already-qualified Oklahoma Metropolis and Houston.
The Lakers poured in 22 three-pointers throughout the sport, with Doncic chargeable for 5 of them. Austin Reaves had 4 three-pointers in his 20-point haul, whereas LeBron James added 19 factors.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma Metropolis scoring with 26 factors on an off-night for the Thunder, who shot simply 43 % from the sphere whereas making solely 12-of-37 three-pointers.
James stated the Lakers had been decided to not let up after making a quick begin in opposition to the Western Convention leaders.
“Between them and Cleveland, they’re the most effective groups within the NBA,” James stated. “They’re the primary staff within the West so you’ll be able to’t let up it doesn’t matter what the rating is — they’re at all times going to make a push. That’s why they’re the place they’re at this a part of the season.
“So it’s a very good win for us and we will construct off it… we’re simply making an attempt to construct our habits proper now, going into the ultimate stretch of the yr.”
Reaves believes the outcome augured properly for the ultimate week of the common season, which reaches its conclusion on April 13.
Six groups are battling for 4 playoff spots within the West, from the third-placed Lakers (48-30) right down to the eighth-placed Memphis Grizzlies (46-32).
“It’s enormous,” Reaves stated. “The best way the standings are, you’ll be able to go from third to eighth within the snap of a finger. So for us to come back in and play such an excellent staff the best way we did tonight is massive. Hopefully we will construct on that momentum.”
The groups will meet once more on Tuesday in Oklahoma Metropolis.
The Thunder scored fewer than 100 factors for the primary time since November 15.
