Thunder Overwhelm Depleted Lakers in Game 1
Holmgren's double-double and deep bench give OKC a commanding series lead
The Oklahoma City Thunder handled the Los Angeles Lakers 108-90 in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, with Chet Holmgren posting 24 points and 12 rebounds to lead a balanced, depth-driven effort. LeBron James put up 27 points for Los Angeles, but it wasn't close after halftime. The Thunder, undefeated through the postseason after sweeping Phoenix in round one, led for the final three quarters.
Holmgren was the story alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who added 18 points in a controlled, MVP-caliber outing. OKC's rotation players did the dirty work defensively and kept the Lakers from finding any second-quarter rhythm after a bright start.
Los Angeles is trying to piece together a playoff roster without Luka Dončić and with Jalen Williams unavailable, and it showed. LeBron fought hard and had no real help stretching the defense or creating off the bounce.
The Thunder are now 5-0 this postseason and have the luxury tax depth the lakers simply can't match right now. Game 2 is back in Oklahoma City and OKC's path to the conference finals looks increasingly clear.