The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Los Angeles Lakers108-90 to win Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals. The Lakers kept the score close early in the game, and it appeared like they would be within striking distance of the Thunder for the remainder of the contest. However, they could not keep up with the defending champions.
LeBron James was the only player to score at least 20 points. He finished with 27 points, four rebounds and six assists on 70.6% shooting from the field. The second-leading scorer for the Lakers was Rui Hachimura, who had 18 points on 50.0% shooting from deep.
Austin Reaves, meanwhile, struggled to be an impactful player for LA. He had eight points on 3-for-18 shooting from the field. He also did not make a single shot from downtown.
LeBron James Shrugged off Austin Reaves' Struggles
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Despite the offensive struggles, James believes that it's not a big deal for the team.
"He was out a month," the four-time champion said. "We know he's gonna make shots and make plays. That's tough when you're out a month towards the end of the season. … His presence alone helps us, no matter what."
Reaves could not find his rhythm against the tough, defensive-minded Thunder team. He spoke to reporters after the game and said that he missed some easy shots despite being in comfortable positions on the floor.
"I got to my spots multiple times. I just missed a couple easy shots," he said.
He also said that the Thunder took advantage of the mental mistakes that he made. Moving forward, he wants to do better and to be sharp in every possession.
"Once you make a couple of mental mistakes, it seems like they take advantage of every one of them. So just gotta be sharp every possession."
Even head coach JJ Redick knows that Reaves did not play well in Game 1. However, he's confident that the undrafted point guard will bounce back in Game 2.
The Lakers still did not have their best player, Luka Doncic, in the game. Doncic remains out as he's recovering from a Grade 2 hamstring strain. There is no timetable for his return, and he may miss the entire second-round against the Thunder.
Game 2 will be on Thursday at OKC. The Lakers are determined to win one game on the road before Games 3 and 4 at home in the Crypto.com Arena.
