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Chet Holmgren dominates with a double-double as the Oklahoma City Thunder crush the Los Angeles Lakers 108-90 in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals. This performance sets the tone for the rest of the series.
Oklahoma City showcases their depth, staying undefeated at 5-0 in the playoffs, even without 2025 All-Star Jalen Williams. Holmgren leads with 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell contribute 18 points each. The Thunder's shooting is impressive, hitting 49.4% from the field and sinking 13 of 30 three-pointers.
The Lakers struggle offensively, missing scoring champion Luka Doncic due to injury. LeBron James puts up 27 points, but Austin Reaves, who averaged 23.3 points in the regular season, can only manage eight on 3-for-16 shooting. The Thunder's defense shines, limiting Los Angeles to 41.7% shooting and forcing 17 turnovers.
After a rocky start with the Lakers leading 7-0, the Thunder recover, ending the first quarter up 31-26. A pivotal moment occurs when Holmgren’s alley-oop dunk causes Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt to exit with an injury. Oklahoma City takes control, leading 84-72 heading into the fourth, and never looks back as they prepare for Game 2 at home on Thursday.
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