The Oklahoma City Thunder bounced back in a big way on Tuesday night. They overpowered the Los Angeles Lakers 136-120 at Paycom Center. Just 24 hours after falling to the Lakers, the Thunder responded with purpose. Despite some chatter surrounding questionable officiating that leaned against the Lakers, Oklahoma City seized control of the game through star power, especially from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
With the win, the Thunder improved to a league-best 64-14 record, locking down the top spot in the Western Conference. The Lakers, who entered the game on a high after Monday’s win, fell to 48-31, holding on to the third seed.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’ Powers The Oklahoma City Thunder To Bounce Back Against Lakers
The All-Star guard lit up the scoreboard with 42 points, adding six rebounds and six assists on 14-of-26 shooting. He knocked down 5 of 9 from deep and was nearly perfect from the line, converting 9 of 11 free throws.
SHAI GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER TONIGHT
— 🌩️ (@twowayshai) April 9, 2025
42 PTS
6 REB
6 AST
1 BLK
14/26 FG
5/9 3PT
13TH 40-POINT GAME FOR THE MVP pic.twitter.com/Y4ffKhuu9C
It marked Shai’s 13th 40-point performance of the season, which strengthened his case for the league MVP. Historically, every player to average 30 points per game on a 65-win team has gone on to win the MVP award, and Shai looks poised to follow that path.
Jalen Williams provided solid support with 26 points, four rebounds, and four assists. Lu Dort added 17 points, and Chet Holmgren contributed 14 points and four boards. Center Isaiah Hartenstein grabbed 15 rebounds to go along with eight points and four assists. Cason Wallace added 11 points to secure the victory.
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On the Lakers’ side, LeBron James led the team with 28 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Austin Reaves followed with 24 points and five assists.
Luka Doncic chipped in with 23 points and five assists before being ejected in a controversial moment. Jaxson Hayes grabbed six rebounds to go with his seven points, and their defensive master Dorian Finney-Smith scored 12 points in the loss.
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