This might need been a high West matchup, nevertheless it didn’t really feel prefer it.
The Thunder by no means had a problem on this bout, as they destroyed the Lakers 139-96. The OKC backcourt led the best way as 5 Thunder guards scored in double-digits, together with Isaiah Joe with 20.
The Thunder proceed to carry on to their high spot within the West, and in the event that they finish the common season like this, they may maintain that spot for the postseason.
Here are three takeaways from the Thunder’s dominant win over the Lakers.
1. Electric begin from Dort
The Thunder began cooking from the very starting, and it was largely due to Lu Dort. The Thunder guard didn’t miss a shot the entire first quarter, hitting all 5 photographs he took, with 4 of them being from past the arc.
Dort ended the quarter with 14 factors and was energetic on the defensive facet with two steals. This sizzling begin from Dort helped OKC leap out to a 20-point lead on the finish of the primary. Dort would finish the sport with out scoring one other level, however his preliminary impression was nonetheless felt.
OKC has needed to see any such efficiency all yr, and with the playoffs approaching, they hope he can carry out similar to he did at the start of Thursday evening’s bout, however in addition they hope he can get to the purpose the place he performs prefer it the entire sport.
2. The MVP is making his case
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as soon as once more put his case for the Most Valuable Player award on show. The reigning MVP had 21 factors at halftime and led OKC to attain 82 factors within the first half as a staff.
Gilgeous-Alexander would finish the sport with 28 factors, taking pictures 48%, and would add seven assists to his resume for the evening. There have been talks in regards to the MVP race being a toss-up between Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic, however tonight was one other instance of why there needs to be no query of who that award goes to.
3. Utter domination from the highest West seed
From the opening tip, it was clear that this sport was not going to be a contest. The Lakers didn’t lead the Thunder as soon as on this sport, and this sport appeared over by the top of the primary quarter.
The Thunder’s largest lead on this bout was 46, and the Thunder stars didn’t see the courtroom within the fourth quarter. L.A. isn’t a nasty staff, as they’re presently ranked third within the West, however they simply aren’t on the extent of OKC.
Oklahoma City has proved as soon as once more that it’s in a league of its personal, and hopes to proceed this with the postseason approaching.
