The Los Angeles Lakers fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder 125-107 in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals, trailing 2-0 in the best-of-seven series. Austin Reaves led the Lakers with a playoff career-high 31 points, while LeBron James added 23 points and six assists. The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (22 points) and Chet Holmgren (22 points, nine rebounds), dominated the third quarter with a 36-22 run to secure the win.
The Lakers, playing without Luka Dončić due to a hamstring injury, held a one-point lead at halftime but struggled in the second half. JJ Redick, Lakers coach, acknowledged the Thunder's depth and execution. The Thunder's Ajay Mitchell contributed 20 points, and ten players scored or rebounded in the pivotal third quarter.
Officials' calls became a focal point, with the Lakers holding a postgame meeting with referees. Social media users criticized perceived favoritism toward the Thunder, citing flopping and foul calls. The Lakers' Alex Caruso received a technical foul, and Gilgeous-Alexander was called for a flagrant foul after taking a charge from Reaves.
The Lakers face a steep challenge to recover from a 2-0 deficit, with only 34 NBA teams historically overcoming such a series deficit. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday in Los Angeles.