The Los Angeles Lakers had few problems shutting down Oklahoma City Thunder last night, when they rolled in Paycom Center and rolled over the home team 116 – 95.
LeBron James was all power last night in OKC, shooting 65% from the field and delivering a stunning performance with 33 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds. The Lakers, who lost to the Thunder at home, early in the season, had no desire to repeat the outcome, despite having Anthony Davis sidelined with a knee injury.
LeBron and company came pushing right from the start, and aided by a good defensive effort, put the game to bed in the first quarter, netting 32 points versus only 18 by Oklahoma City. Despite the 14-point early lead, the Lakers did not take the foot off the pedal in the second, and while OKC clocked in a much improved performance, LA added 5 more points to their lead, to go in the locker room with confidence in winning the game.
Coach Vogel must have driven the point of missed opportunities and comebacks during the break, because the Lakers came out after half time pressing still. Strong bench helped Los Angeles to add six extra points to their lead and the final quarter, although won by the Thunder 23-27, was just a formality.
Besides LeBron and his 33 points, Avery Bradley was a pleasant surprise, scoring 22 points in 26 minutes. Austin Reaves was good for 13 points and 5 rebounds off the bench, and Carmelo Anthony scored 7 points, complimenting with 4 rebounds and 3 assists. The Lakers 3-point game was what really drove the stake through the Thunder’s heart, LA shooting over 45% for a total of 19 successful attempts.
Next, on Sunday the Lakers should have an easy game against the visiting Orlando Magic, who are near the bottom of the Eastern, having won only 4 games this season.
