Thunder sweep LeBron and the Lakers to return to Western Conference finals
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Oklahoma City Thunder swept the Los Angeles Lakers 4-0 in the first-round playoff series, ending the Lakers' season and potentially marking the end of LeBron James' career as he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 35 points in the decisive Game 4 victory, while the Lakers fought back late but ultimately fell short after key missed shots by LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
- The Thunder, undefeated this postseason despite missing key player Jalen Williams, will face the winner of the San Antonio Spurs vs. Minnesota Timberwolves series in the Western Conference finals.
- Lakers veteran Marcus Smart had a disappointing final game, struggling offensively and now facing a decision on his player option, while the Lakers must consider their roster moving forward after a season-ending loss.
- Despite moments of resilience, the Lakers' prolonged scoring drought in the second quarter and inability to close out tight moments contributed to their elimination by a dominant Thunder team.