Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put on an electrifying performance on Tuesday, scoring a remarkable 42 points to lead his team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, to a 136-120 victory against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Thunder, who previously suffered a defeat at the hands of the Lakers, not only avenged that loss but also set a franchise record by securing their 65th win of the season.
The game wasn’t without drama. Lakers' star player, Luka Dončić, found himself ejected in the fourth quarter following a controversial technical foul call. With 7:30 left on the clock, Dončić’s exit became a turning point, paving the way for a stunning 29-12 run by the Thunder. Gilgeous-Alexander showcased why he’s the NBA's top scorer, contributing 10 of his points during this decisive run.
Strong all night, Gilgeous-Alexander's shooting was impeccable—hitting 14 out of 26 from the field, 5 out of 9 from beyond the arc, and nailing 9 out of 11 free throws. His performance wasn’t just about scoring; he dominated across multiple stats, adding six rebounds, six assists, and a block. Fellow teammate Jalen Williams supported with 26 points, while Isaiah Hartenstein was crucial on the boards.
Defense was another key to the Thunder's success. They forced the Lakers into 18 turnovers and stepped up their defensive efforts effectively, constraining the Lakers' previously potent perimeter game. Head Coach Mark Daigneault emphasized the importance of resilience and adapting under pressure, something the Thunder demonstrated brilliantly.
Luka Dončić, prior to his ejection, was having a stellar night with 30 points. However, his absence left the Lakers struggling to maintain their pace, allowing the Thunder to extend their lead decisively. For the Lakers, this loss means they remain in third place in the Western Conference, with only four games remaining to secure their ranking.
Oklahoma City is now just one win away from not only cementing their spot atop the Western Conference but also achieving the league’s best overall record. This triumph surpassed the previous franchise high set by the 1995-96 Seattle SuperSonics, an achievement that speaks volumes about their current form.
Gilgeous-Alexander's prowess and direction have been instrumental in positioning the Thunder as a strong playoff contender. His statement, ‘We had to get our lick back,’ underscored the team’s determination to reclaim their winning form and proved that they are ready to tackle the postseason challenges.
With home-court advantage on their side, the Thunder seem poised for a deep playoff run, determined to prove their championship potential after decisively handling what many considered a playoff-caliber test against the Lakers.