Oklahoma City Hosts Lakers in NBA Western Conference Semifinals
The Los Angeles Lakers are in a must-win situation after a dismal Game 1 performance, and they’ll face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of the NBA Western Conference Semifinals this Thursday. Tipoff is set for 9:30 p.m. ET from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder will look to maintain their perfect record in the series.
Lakers’ Offense Sputters in Opener
LeBron James Struggles with Efficiency
The Lakers’ offense was woefully inefficient in the series opener, with LeBron James leading the team in scoring with just 22 points on 8-20 shooting from the field. The four-time NBA champion also struggled with his free throw shooting, going 4-8 from the line. The veteran forward’s struggles could be a major concern for the Lakers heading into Game 2, as they’ll need him to step up and lead the team out of their current funk.
The Thunder’s defense, meanwhile, was stingy in the series opener, holding the Lakers to just 42.6% shooting from the field and 24% from three-point range. The Thunder’s interior defense was particularly impressive, as they held Lakers big man Rusell Westbrook Jr.’s brother Norman Powell‘s teammate, Anthony Davis, to just 15 points on 6-20 shooting from the field.
Thunder Look to Build on Momentum</hassistant
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Thunder’s Charge
The Thunder will look to build on the momentum of their Game 1 victory, which saw Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drop 32 points and nine rebounds. The 25-year-old guard has been a thorn in the side of the Lakers all season, and he’ll likely be the focus of their defense in Game 2.
The Thunder’s bench also played a key role in their Game 1 victory, with Josh Giddey and Luguentz Dort combining for 25 points on 9-18 shooting from the field. If the Thunder’s bench can continue to provide a spark off the bench, it could be a long night for the Lakers.
Lakers Must Improve Efficiency
In order for the Lakers to get back in the series, they’ll need to improve their efficiency on both ends of the court. They’ll need to find ways to get LeBron James more involved in the offense, as well as get Anthony Davis more involved in the paint.
The Lakers will also need to improve their three-point shooting, as they were just 4-17 from beyond the arc in the series opener. If they can get their shooting back on track, they may have a chance to hang with the Thunder in Game 2.
