Lakers fall to Oklahoma City in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals
Chet Holmgren was the offensive leader for OKC, who will host the Lakers on Thursday in Game 2
Oklahoma City took control of the series from the-start. The Thunder won 108-90 over Los Angeles Lakers in the first duel the NBA Western semifinals, a result that extends their dominance against the Los Angeles team, which hasn't lost in the season.
The scoreboard clearly reflected what happened on the court, although the start offered another image. The Lakers started with greater offensive tempo and gained an early advantage to seven points, driven by an LeBron James from the first minutes. The tie came midway through the first quarter, moment in which the game changed hands.
From that point, the home team took control. A close of 9-2 allowed them to go up at the end of the first period and, from then, managed the difference during the rest of the encounter. Although Los Ángeles managed to shorten distances in different passages, they never managed to sustain a prolonged reaction.
Thunder's offensive and control problems in the second half
The difficulties in attack marked the development for the Lakers. The team recorded 41.7% in field shots and 33.3% in 3-pointers, figures that limited their response ability against a rival that found constant solutions. This was added 17 turnovers, which led to 20 points for Oklahoma City.
The second quarter showed attempts to react. Deandre Ayton contributed with consecutive baskets to reduce the disadvantage, while Luke Kennard added from e the line of three. However, each advance was answered by the Thunder, who managed to maintain a lead close to double-digits before the break.
After halftime, the margin remained under local control. The Lakers got to four points in the third quarter, but a streak of seven consecutive units from Okl ahoma City gave a distance again. The close of the period included a four point play by Ajay Mitchell, which left the scoreboard with a 12 difference heading into the final quarter.
The final stretch ended inclining the result. The Thunder took advantage of early losses by its rival and extended the lead with quick actions s, including a dunk by Alex Caruso after recovery. The difference reached 19 points and left no room for reaction to Los Ángeles.
Individually, LeBron James led the Lakers with 27 points, six assists and four rebounds. Rui Hachimura added 18 points, while Ayton contributed a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds. Austin Reaves had a complicated night with eight points and 3 of 16 on field shots.
For Oklahoma City, Chet Holmgren led the offense with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 18 points despite accumulating turnovers, and Ajay Mitchell also contributed 18 points.
The second game of the series is scheduled for this Thursday, again at the home of Thunder.

