LeBron James added another milestone to his legendary postseason career despite the Los Angeles Lakers falling 125-107 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal series on Friday Morning.
James became the first player in NBA history to appear in 300 playoff games, extending a record that already places him at the summit of postseason longevity.
The 41-year-old forward reached the landmark in a difficult night for the Lakers, who saw a promising start collapse under Oklahoma City’s relentless third-quarter surge.
The Lakers held a halftime lead and briefly went up by five points early in the third quarter, appearing capable of leveling the series before the Thunder’s trademark third quarter intensity took over.
Oklahoma City dominated the period, turning defensive pressure and transition scoring into another decisive run. By the end of the third quarter, the Thunder had built a 13-point advantage and never looked back, moving into a commanding 2-0 lead in the series as the matchup now shifts to Los Angeles for Game 3 on Saturday.
James finished with 23 points, six assists and three steals, although he appeared to struggle physically after taking a couple of heavy falls that left him favouring his right hip and wrist during the contest.
Thunder Depth Punishes Lakers
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA Finals MVP and one of the league’s elite guards, battled foul trouble but still produced 22 points as the Lakers repeatedly sent double teams his way.
Even with Gilgeous-Alexander limited for stretches, the Thunder’s supporting cast stepped up impressively. Ajay Mitchell scored 20 points and added six assists after moving into the starting lineup, while rookie guard Jared McCain exploded for 18 points in just 18 minutes off the bench.
McCain’s shooting proved especially damaging as he knocked down four of his five attempts from three-point range. Oklahoma City’s bench outscored the Lakers’ reserves 48-20, underlining the depth advantage that has defined the Thunder’s playoff run.
Chet Holmgren also delivered another dominant all-around display with 22 points, nine rebounds, four steals and two blocks.
The versatile big man played a crucial role during the game-changing third quarter while Gilgeous-Alexander sat because of foul trouble. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault was full of praise one of his starmen.
“I thought he was unbelievable. He’s the ultimate winner tonight. His offensive rebounding and defensive rebounding, his nose was in the fight down there. There’s nothing he can’t do, and when the lights are on, he’s at his best.”
Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma Thunder Coach
Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein combined to dominate the glass, helping Oklahoma City secure a 17-6 edge in second-chance points through relentless offensive rebounding.
Reaves Shines but Turnovers Hurt Lakers
Despite the defeat, Austin Reaves produced one of his strongest playoff performances for the Lakers, scoring a game-high 31 points on efficient shooting after struggling in Game 1.
Lakers coach J.J. Redick hailed the guard’s response after the game. “He did a good job touching the paint and those touch shots were there and got some good looks from three,” Redick said. “He played a solid game.”
Rui Hachimura continued his impressive postseason shooting form with 16 points, including four three-pointers, but the Lakers’ recurring turnover issues again proved costly. Los Angeles committed 21 turnovers, which the Thunder converted into 26 points.
Combined with Oklahoma City Thunder’s dominance on the offensive boards, the mistakes prevented the Lakers from sustaining momentum late in the game.
“You can start seeing some trends here. We probably need to go back to the two keys we had against Houston, which is take care of the ball and box out.”
J. J Redick, LA Lakers coach
As the series heads to Los Angeles, the Lakers will hope James can recover physically and inspire a response. But with the Thunder’s depth, energy and defensive pressure continuing to overwhelm opponents, Oklahoma City now holds firm control of the series despite James’ latest historic achievement.
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