The Los Angeles Lakers stunned the Oklahoma City Thunder, the top team in the Western Conference, with a commanding 126-99 victory on Wednesday night. It shouldn’t be lost that LA had an incredible game, particularly their perimeter shooting. That impressive performance on both ends allowed them to achieve a commanding victory at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
Right from the jump, the Lakers showed that they were going to impose their will. They sprinted out to an early double-digit lead, establishing the pace early against the top team in the league in the Thunder. During 48 minutes of action, the Lakers held a double-digit lead that they never looked close to giving up. The resounding win sent the home crowd into stunned silence and served as a major statement win from these Lakers.
The Thunder struggled offensively. They struggled to find the bottom of the hoop, shooting 43 percent from the field and making just 32 percent of their 3-point attempts — 12 for 37. This loss came as an even larger blow to Oklahoma City. That was the first time since Nov. 15 they didn’t score at least 100 points in a game.
Luka Doncic, a potential future Laker, led the mavs with a dazzling 30 points with five makes from deep. Austin Reaves was arguably as impactful, scoring 20 points while making four three-pointers. LeBron James put the final touches on the offensive onslaught with 19 points, capping off an offensive exhibition by the Lakers.
“Between them and Cleveland, they’re the best teams in the NBA,” – LeBron James
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was too hot to handle for his fellow Thunder teammates, scoring a team-high 26 points. Regardless of what he did, the Thunder just couldn’t get the engine running. The Lakers went on to hit 22 threes as a team in the game.
Even with the unbelievable start and the dominant performance, James warned about being too comfortable.
“They’re the number one team in the West so you can’t let up no matter what the score is — they’re always going to make a push. That’s why they are where they are at this part of the season,” – LeBron James
