Thunder's Holmgren Dominates as OKC Advances in Western Conference Semifinals
Holmgren scores 24 points as OKC beats Lakers in Game 1 of Western Conference Semifinals. Thunder improves to 5-0 while holding Los Angeles to just 27 points and 41. 7% shooting.
Oklahoma City advances, ready for the next round.
CHICAGO - Chet Holmgren had a standout performance, scoring 24 points and grabbing 12 rebounds to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to an overwhelming victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 18 points, while Ajay Mitchell chipped in with another 18. The Thunder improved to 5-0 in the Western Conference Semifinals as they topped the Lakers by a score of 108-90 in Game 1 on Tuesday night.
The defending champions were without Jalen Williams following an injury but managed to shoot at a high clip, making 49. 4% from the field and hitting 13 of 30 three-point attempts. Oklahoma City hosted Game 2 on Thursday.
With James out due to an injured left hamstring, the Lakers struggled with offense, scoring just 27 points in total. In contrast, the Thunder dominated the boards, forcing 17 turnovers and holding a slight edge in shooting percentages (41. 7%) and free-throw percentage.