Player grades: Thunder survive SGA's struggles in 125-107 Game 2 win over Lakers

OKLAHOMA CITY — Getting a rare one-on-one look, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander quickly took advantage of the breathing room. He shouldered through Luke Kennard before he went with a patented stepback 3-pointer. Swish.

The reigning MVP performed his signature celebration as he served the dagger. The Oklahoma City Thunder once again pulled away late in their 125-107 Game 2 win over the Los Angeles Lakers . Following the same script, they've built up a 2-0 series lead.

If Game 1 was the most stressful 18-point playoff win ever, Game 2 was the most adventurous iteration. In a game that flirted with three hours, the Thunder looked like they were on the cusp of their first playoff letdown before eventually flipping the switch — all without Gilgeous-Alexander. To start, it was the Thunder's turn to rattle off the first seven points.

Eventually, the Lakers settled down. Once again, they went with their radical game plan on blitzing Gilgeous-Alexander as soon as the ball was in his hands. He had to spam the L1 button on his controller every time to pass it out to an open teammate.