Oklahoma City Thunder strengthened their grip on the Western Conference semi-finals with a 125-107 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, taking a 2-0 lead in the playoff series.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 22 points as Oklahoma City capitalised on 21 Lakers turnovers to secure the win. Although not at his absolute best, he received strong support from Chet Holmgren, who added 22 points and nine rebounds, while Ajay Mitchell and Jared McCain also made key contributions.
For the Lakers, LeBron James marked his 300th playoff appearance with 23 points and six assists, while Austin Reaves impressed with 31 points. However, with Luka Dončić still unavailable through injury, Los Angeles struggled to keep pace as the Thunder pulled away with a decisive second-half run.
The physical game also saw frustrations over officiating, with Lakers coach JJ Redick criticising the level of contact allowed, though he admitted the referees were not the reason for the defeat.
In the Eastern Conference, Detroit Pistons also moved 2-0 ahead after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 107-97. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 25 points and 10 assists, dominating late in the fourth quarter to seal the victory.
Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points for Cleveland, but the Cavaliers could not hold onto their brief fourth-quarter lead. The series now shifts to Cleveland, where the Pistons will look to continue their strong playoff momentum.
