The Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a brief scare in Game 2 before cruising to a 125-107 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the Western Conference semifinals of the National Basketball Association. The game was held on Thursday, May 9, 2026, at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
Key Performances
Thunder duo Chet Holmgren and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander combined for 44 points to lead the defending champions. Ajay Mitchell contributed 20 points, while Jaren McCain added 18. The Thunder remain undefeated in the playoffs, having won all six games so far.
Turning Point
The Lakers led 63-61 early in the third quarter when Gilgeous-Alexander got tied up with Austin Reaves and was called for his fourth foul. After review, the foul was upgraded to a flagrant 1 for Gilgeous-Alexander's follow-through. Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso also received a technical foul. Gilgeous-Alexander left the game with the Lakers leading 65-61, but the Thunder responded with a massive 21-5 run to take a 93-80 lead into the fourth quarter. The Thunder never looked back in the final frame.
Lakers' Injuries
The Lakers were again without scoring leader Luka Doncic, who is out indefinitely with a strained left hamstring. They also missed forward Jarred Vanderbilt, who dislocated the pinkie finger on his right hand during the second quarter of Game 1.
Lakers' Bright Spots
Austin Reaves, who struggled with his shot in Game 1, found his rhythm in Game 2 with 31 points on 10-for-16 shooting. Veteran LeBron James added 23 points for the Lakers.
Looking Ahead
The Thunder are set to travel to Los Angeles for Game 3 on Sunday. The Lakers will need to find a way to counter the Thunder's depth and resilience to avoid falling into a 3-0 hole.
