Lakers Trade Pitch Lands 44.5-Inch Vertical Big Man as Luka Doncic’s Lob Partner The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring a potential trade that could address a key weakness in their frontcourt while maintaining financial flexibility. After missing out on Jonathan Kuminga, who opted to join the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Lakers are considering acquiring Milwaukee Bucks center Jericho Sims as a low-cost solution. Sims, a 6-foot-10 player with a 44.5-inch vertical leap, could provide the team with a versatile big man to complement Luka Doncic’s playmaking abilities. The proposed deal would involve the Lakers sending Dalton Knecht to the Bucks in exchange for Sims. Knecht, a 25-year-old former first-round pick, carries a $4.2 million salary this season, while Sims is set to earn just $2.8 million in the final year of his contract. This financial balance makes the trade appealing for the Lakers, as it allows them to add depth without significantly impacting their payroll. The Lakers would also avoid attaching draft assets, preserving their 2032 first-round pick swap and second-round draft capital for future moves. Sims’ value lies in his ability to serve as a reliable rebounder, screen setter, and rim-runner. His explosive athleticism, demonstrated by a 44.5-inch vertical leap at the 2021 NBA Draft Combine, has translated into consistent performance on the court. Last season, Sims recorded 95 dunks in 67 games, averaging nearly 1.4 dunks per contest. These traits align perfectly with Doncic’s style of play, as the Slovenian star thrives by creating easy opportunities for teammates. Sims would not need to carry a heavy offensive load, instead focusing on setting hard screens, sprinting to the rim, and playing above the rim to disrupt opposing defenses.#milwaukee_bucks #luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #jericho_sims #daltan_knecht
LeBron James Weighs Next NBA Destination Amid Free Agency LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and 22-time All-Star, is currently in the final stages of deciding his next team after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. The 41-year-old superstar, who officially informed the Lakers of his departure in late June, is an unrestricted free agent and has been in active discussions with multiple franchises. While the exact details of his decision remain private, insiders suggest he is nearing a choice, with several teams expressing interest in his services. James, who has spent the majority of his 23-season NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, is known for his meticulous approach to such decisions. A person with direct knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports that James has received all necessary information from potential suitors and is now carefully evaluating his options. The individual spoke anonymously due to confidentiality agreements, emphasizing that the timeline for a final decision could be imminent. The free agent market has been abuzz with speculation about James’ potential destinations. Among the most frequently mentioned teams are the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves. The Cavaliers and Heat, in particular, hold special significance for James. He was selected first overall by Cleveland in 2003 and later helped the franchise win its first NBA title in 2016. Similarly, he led the Heat to two championships in 2012 and 2013 before joining the Lakers in 2018. James’ decision is driven by his desire to compete for another championship, a goal that has defined his career.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #cleveland_cavaliers #miami_heat #philadelphia_76ers
LA Clippers vs LA Lakers Prediction: NBA Summer League Crosstown Rivalry Betting Picks and Odds for Tuesday in Las Vegas The Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers will face off in a highly anticipated Summer League matchup on Tuesday, July 14, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. The game, part of the 2026 NBA Summer League, will pit the two storied franchises against each other in a crosstown rivalry that carries extra weight despite the absence of their star players. While the regular season may not be in play, the Summer League setting—featuring rookies, two-way players, and G League talent—adds a unique layer to the contest. The Clippers and Lakers will compete at 10:00 PM ET, with a crowd expected to fill the venue for this annual showdown. The Lakers enter the game with a 2-0 record in Las Vegas, having defeated Oklahoma City 96-84 and Dallas 91-70. Their offensive success has been driven by standout performances from key players, though injuries have tested their depth. Cameron Carr, the No. 24 overall pick in the 2026 draft, has been a focal point for the Lakers. Carr scored 18 points on 7-of-13 shooting against Oklahoma City but missed the Dallas game due to a right thumb contusion. His return is critical for the Lakers, as he provides a dynamic scoring threat and defensive versatility. In Carr’s absence, second-year forward Adou Thiero stepped up, scoring 20 points against Dallas. Thiero, a 2025 second-round pick, has shown flashes of explosiveness and finishing ability, positioning him as a potential key contributor for the Lakers. The Clippers, meanwhile, sit at 1-1 in the Summer League after a narrow loss to Sacramento (91-85) and a strong rebounding performance against Utah (104-82).#los_angeles_lakers #los_angeles_clippers #thomas_mack_center #nba_summer_league #cameron_carr
NBA Trade Rumors: Lakers Hesitant to Acquire PJ Washington Amid Contract Concerns The Los Angeles Lakers have officially added Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, Walker Kessler, and Jaden Hardy to their roster, with Collin Sexton and Kevon Looney still pending official decisions. Despite these additions, the team remains focused on addressing its need for a starting-caliber forward. Among the names frequently mentioned in trade discussions is Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington, a former teammate of Luka Doncic. Washington’s potential fit as a power forward next to Doncic has drawn interest, but his four-year, $88.8 million contract has raised concerns for the Lakers, according to Khobi Price of The California Post. Price noted that the Lakers have long been linked to Washington, but the fully guaranteed nature of his remaining contract is a significant deterrent. The Mavericks, while facing a surplus of forwards, have not shown clear eagerness to trade Washington. His 2026-27 salary of $19.3 million means the Lakers would need to offset at least $11.8 million in salary to make a legal trade match. Potential options include Jarred Vanderbilt alone or the combined salaries of Hardy and Jake LaRavia. However, the Lakers’ reluctance to take on Washington’s contract persists, even as they evaluate their existing four-year deals for Kessler, Austin Reaves, Grimes, and Mamukelashvili. The Lakers view these contracts as fair market value, potentially making them tradeable in the future if needed. Washington’s contract, however, could prove difficult to move if he fails to improve his performance with the team. With the forward position remaining a priority, the Lakers may consider Washington their best option if trade talks with Jonathan Kuminga stall.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #dallas_mavericks #pj_washington #khobi_price
Lakers Continue Pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga Amid Free Agency Uncertainty The Los Angeles Lakers remain deeply engaged in their pursuit of unrestricted free agent wing Jonathan Kuminga, despite not yet presenting a compelling enough offer to secure his commitment, according to league sources. The situation unfolded after the Atlanta Hawks declined Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option on June 29, prompting immediate discussions between Kuminga and Lakers officials. Within days, Kuminga met virtually with general manager Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick, who outlined a vision for him as a high-minute wing playing alongside Luka Doncic in a spacious offensive environment tailored to his skill set. However, the Lakers’ financial strategy has complicated their ability to meet Kuminga’s expectations. Following their initial outreach, the team allocated the majority of its financial flexibility to sign players such as Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, and Collin Sexton. This move left minimal room for a competitive offer to Kuminga, despite ongoing efforts to refine their proposal. Pelinka has maintained contact with Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, subtly adjusting the terms of the offer in recent days. The Lakers have emphasized Kuminga’s potential role as a key contributor to their long-term plans around Doncic, including a likely starting position and the career growth such an opportunity could provide. Kuminga and Turner, however, have not yet accepted the Lakers’ overtures, believing there are still avenues for improved deals as the free agency landscape continues to evolve. One potential path involves a sign-and-trade with the Hawks, which remain open to facilitating a move that would allow Kuminga to retain his Bird rights and secure a more favorable contract.#los_angeles_lakers #jj_redick #atlanta_hawks #rob_pelinka #jonathan_kuminga
Lakers lose Rui Hachimura, who signs two-year deal with the Clippers Rui Hachimura, a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, has signed a two-year, $28-million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, marking the end of his tenure with the Lakers. The deal was confirmed by sources familiar with the situation but not authorized to speak publicly. Hachimura, 28, joined the Lakers in January 2023 through a trade with the Washington Wizards and became an integral part of the team’s roster, earning praise from teammates and contributing significantly during the playoffs. During his time with the Lakers, Hachimura showcased his shooting prowess, particularly in the postseason. In 10 playoff games, he averaged 17.5 points per game, the third-highest scoring output on the team. His ability to consistently make three-pointers—shooting 56.9% from beyond the arc—ranked him fifth among all NBA players in that category during the playoffs. His efficiency was a critical factor in the Lakers’ offensive strategy, as he provided spacing that allowed stars like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to operate more effectively. Hachimura’s performance extended beyond the playoffs. Over 68 games in the 2023-24 season, he averaged 11.5 points while shooting 51.4% from the field and 44.3% from three-point range. He started 41 of those games, including all 10 playoff contests, where he delivered a standout performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a 43-minute outing, he scored 25 points on 9-of-15 shooting from the field and 4-of-8 from three-point range, setting a playoff-high for the Lakers. The Clippers’ decision to acquire Hachimura was influenced by his shooting accuracy and athleticism, according to sources close to the team.#los_angeles_lakers #los_angeles_clippers #oklahoma_city_thunder #washington_wizards #rui_hachimura
LeBron James leaving Lakers, reportedly plans to return for 24th NBA season with a new team LeBron James is set to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after the 2025-26 season, marking the end of his tenure with the franchise. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, James has informed the Lakers of his decision to seek a new team for the 2026-27 NBA season. The move dispels rumors that James might retire following the 2025-26 campaign at age 41. Prior to free agency, James met with Lakers president Rob Pelinka to discuss his decision, a gesture described as an act of courtesy and appreciation for their shared journey. Despite his age and the physical toll of years in the league, James remained a dominant force, averaging 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds in 60 games during the 2025 season. His leadership was pivotal as the Lakers navigated the playoffs, where he formed a formidable trio with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. The trio propelled the Lakers to a No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, a testament to their collective impact. However, the Lakers’ playoff run was cut short in the second round, where they were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. This loss came after Dončić and Reaves were sidelined, leaving James to carry the team through the first-round series against the Houston Rockets. The Lakers’ future now appears to be reshaped by the departure of key players. With Reaves moving to a new max contract and Dončić assuming a central role, the franchise is entering a new era. James’ absence will leave a significant void, as his ability to elevate teammates and secure victories has been a cornerstone of the Lakers’ success. Throughout his career, James has redefined the standards of excellence in the NBA.#shams_charania #lebron_james #luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #austin_reaves
Los Angeles Lakers' Austin Reaves Set to Sign Historic 4-Year, $185M Max Contract The Los Angeles Lakers have reached an agreement with guard Austin Reaves to extend his career with the franchise through a four-year, $185 million maximum contract, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal includes a player option for the final season in 2029-30, marking the most lucrative contract in NBA history for an undrafted player. Reaves, 28, declined his $14.9 million player option for the 2023-24 season to facilitate this new agreement, which is projected to make him the highest-paid player in league history for an undrafted athlete. The negotiations, which spanned the past 10 days, involved Lakers ownership and front-office representatives meeting with Reaves and his agents, Aaron Reilly and Reggie Berry of AMR Agency, at the team’s practice facility shortly after the NBA Finals. The discussions included personal gestures such as customized “AR”-initialed pillows and Reaves’ favorite country music, reflecting the Lakers’ commitment to securing his long-term future. A source close to Reaves described his emotional reaction as “great relief,” emphasizing his desire to remain with the team and contribute to its success. Reaves’ return to the Lakers is a significant milestone for the franchise, as the contract is structured to align with the team’s financial projections. The deal does not affect the Lakers’ cap flexibility this summer, as the team’s projected salary space already accounts for Reaves’ $20.9 million cap hold. He will sign the contract last, after the Lakers exhaust their available cap space, and will earn $41.3 million in the first year. This move ensures Reaves remains under the team’s control for the next four seasons, with the player option allowing him to decide his future in 2029-30.#shams_charania #los_angeles_lakers #rob_pelinka #austin_reaves #amr_agency
Kevin Garnett Urges LeBron James to Conclude Career with Cleveland Cavaliers The NBA offseason has ignited speculation about LeBron James’ future, with the focus squarely on where the four-time champion will end his legendary career. While James is heavily linked to a potential return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the likelihood of him re-signing with the Los Angeles Lakers remains high, as the Cavaliers face significant challenges in meeting his financial demands. However, former NBA great Kevin Garnett has publicly expressed his hope that James would choose to return to Cleveland, a move that would mark his third stint with the franchise and a fitting conclusion to his storied career. Garnett, who once faced off against James during their time in the NBA, has long been a vocal advocate for the idea of James returning to his hometown. During an interview on the Ticket & The Truth podcast with former Celtics teammate Paul Pierce, Garnett emphasized his belief that James should consider a return to Cleveland, even if it means accepting a pay cut. “If you’re doing a farewell tour and this is his last hurrah, I would like to see him in Cleveland. Take a pay cut, go back somewhere,” Garnett said. His comments underscore the emotional appeal of a homecoming for James, who spent his early NBA days with the Cavaliers before leaving for Miami and later the Lakers. The financial reality, however, presents a major hurdle. James, entering his 24th NBA season, is hitting unrestricted free agency after his $52.6 million contract with the Lakers expires. The Cavaliers, despite having the largest salary cap in the league, are unable to offer him the compensation he seeks. Instead, they could only provide a veteran’s minimum contract worth less than $4 million.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #cleveland_cavaliers #kevin_garnett #ticket_and_the_truth
Steph Curry's Potential Move to Golden State and LeBron James' Free Agency Outlook Reports indicate that Steph Curry is considering reaching out to LeBron James to explore a potential trade to the Golden State Warriors. While the idea of a reunion between the two stars has generated significant buzz, analysts highlight the numerous challenges that would need to be overcome for such a move to materialize. The Warriors, already facing financial constraints, would need to navigate complex salary cap issues, including the possibility of trading Jimmy Butler and his $56.8 million contract. Butler’s recent ACL injury further complicates this scenario, as his value to the team is diminished. Additionally, the second-apron restrictions in free agency would limit the Warriors’ ability to add depth to their roster, leaving them reliant on two aging stars—Curry, 38, and James, 41—who would need to carry the team in a playoff push. The Warriors’ pursuit of James is seen as a calculated risk, given their recent playoff struggles. A roster built around Curry and James would lack the defensive versatility and shooting depth that defined their 2022 championship run. Critics argue that both players have become more ball-dominant in their later careers, which could clog the court and reduce the space Curry needs to operate. This dynamic mirrors past failed attempts to build super-teams around aging stars, such as the 2012-13 Los Angeles Lakers and the 2013-14 Brooklyn Nets. While the Warriors’ 2016 acquisition of Kevin Durant demonstrated a willingness to invest in star power, the long-term success of such strategies has been inconsistent. LeBron James’ free agency situation is equally complex.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #steph_curry #jimmy_butler
Lakers Seek Front-Office Expansion Amid Playoff Loss, Target NBA Prospects The Los Angeles Lakers are pursuing a significant overhaul of their front office as part of a broader restructuring under new owner Mark Walter. The move follows a disappointing NBA playoffs exit, where the team fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round despite a regular-season record of 53-29 that secured them the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. The expansion aims to align the Lakers' operations with the model of the Los Angeles Dodgers, a franchise Walter also owns as part of the Guggenheim group. Central to the restructuring is Rob Pelinka, who will remain the primary decision-maker in the front office. Pelinka has outlined plans to hire two assistant general managers this offseason. One role will focus on draft and player evaluation processes, while the other will specialize in salary-cap strategy, data analytics, and long-term planning. The Lakers’ front-office expansion is also tied to broader efforts to modernize their operations, as highlighted by The Athletic’s Dan Woike, who reported in February that the team was preparing for “significant hires” to mirror the Dodgers’ organizational structure. The search for new talent has drawn interest from several NBA executives. According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, potential candidates include Prosper Karangwa of the Philadelphia 76ers, Eric Amsler of the Miami Heat, and Bart Taylor of the Utah Jazz. Karangwa, who has been with the 76ers since October 2020, has also attracted attention from the Dallas Mavericks following Daryl Morey’s departure from Philadelphia. Amsler, a veteran in the Heat’s scouting department since the 2004-05 season, has served as vice president of player personnel since the 2023-24 season.#los_angeles_lakers #los_angeles_dodgers #rob_pelinka #mark_walter #prosper_karangwa
Luka Doncic Injury Update: Lakers Star Ruled Out for Game 4 as Thunder Push Los Angeles to Brink of Elimination The Los Angeles Lakers face elimination in the Western Conference semifinals after being forced to sit Luka Doncic for Game 4 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The star guard, who suffered a Grade 2 hamstring strain on April 2, has been ruled out for the matchup, adding to the team’s woes as they trail 3-0 in the series. The decision has intensified scrutiny over the Lakers’ handling of Doncic’s injury, with critics questioning whether the organization prioritized his recovery over competitive urgency during the playoffs. Doncic’s injury has already cost the Lakers critical playoff games, as he missed 14 contests since the initial setback, including 10 games in the postseason. Despite being sidelined for over a month, he has not yet been cleared for full-contact play, leaving the team without its primary scoring threat. The Thunder, meanwhile, have dominated the series with a combined record of 108-90, 125-107, and 131-108 in the first three games, showcasing their depth, speed, and offensive efficiency. The Thunder’s dominance has brought them to the brink of a sweep, with a potential Western Conference Finals appearance within reach. The situation escalated when sports doctor Jesse Morse publicly criticized the Lakers’ treatment plan for Doncic’s injury. Morse, who has previously worked with NBA teams, argued that the injury may have been more severe than initially assessed and required a more aggressive recovery strategy. He criticized the Lakers for relying on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, calling it a “baby dose” and “about a three out of 10 in potency.#luka_doncic #nba #los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #jesse_morse
Isaiah Hartenstein Shines as Thunder Dominate Lakers in Western Conference Semifinals The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a commanding 125-107 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals on May 7 at the Paycom Center. The defending champions extended their playoff dominance to 6-0, taking a 2-0 series lead with Game 3 set for Los Angeles on Saturday. Isaiah Hartenstein, a key contributor for the Thunder, delivered a well-rounded performance with 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists in 27 minutes, while Chet Holmgren and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander each added 22 points to fuel Oklahoma City’s offensive firepower. Hartenstein’s impact was felt throughout the game, as he controlled the paint with efficiency and defensive presence. His 9 rebounds, including critical offensive boards, helped the Thunder maintain possession and capitalize on second-chance opportunities. The 26-year-old center also recorded two blocks and showcased his ability to facilitate from the high post, adding an extra dimension to the Thunder’s attack. His contributions were pivotal in the Thunder’s ability to stifle the Lakers’ efforts, particularly in the paint where the defending champions asserted their dominance. The Thunder’s offensive surge was led by Holmgren and Gilgeous-Alexander, who combined for 44 points and played complementary roles in dismantling the Lakers’ defense. Holmgren, with 9 rebounds, established a physical presence on the glass, while Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring prowess kept the Thunder’s offense flowing. Ajay Mitchell chipped in 20 points, and Jaren McCain added 18, ensuring the Thunder’s balanced attack left little room for the Lakers to mount a comeback.#los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeousalexander #chet_holmgren #isaiah_hartenstein
Holmgren and Gilgeous-Alexander each score 22 as Thunder take 2-0 lead over Lakers in West semis The Oklahoma City Thunder extended their Western Conference semifinal series dominance with a commanding 125-107 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night, taking a 2-0 series lead. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA Most Valuable Player, led the charge with 22 points, while Chet Holmgren added 22 to help the defending champions secure a decisive win. The Thunder’s performance underscored their resilience despite Gilgeous-Alexander’s reduced scoring output compared to his regular-season average of 31.1 points. Gilgeous-Alexander, who averaged 20 points per game in the series, took only 14 shots in the first two games, a stark contrast to his usual workload. His efficiency, however, was evident as the Thunder maintained an average 18-point margin in the first two contests. The victory marked a pivotal moment in the best-of-seven series, with Oklahoma City’s defense and depth proving critical. Ajay Mitchell, starting in place of the injured Jalen Williams, emerged as a key contributor, averaging 19 points on 50% shooting. “The coaching staff does a good job at getting all of us ready,” Mitchell said, emphasizing the team’s competitive culture. His performance highlighted the Thunder’s depth, which has been a hallmark of their success this season. Holmgren, the 2026 All-Star, was the Thunder’s leading scorer in the series, averaging 23 points per game alongside 10.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks. His all-around impact was further amplified by the contributions of Jared McCain, a midseason acquisition from the Philadelphia 76ers. McCain, who had minimal minutes in the first round, averaged 15 points and made 8 of 10 three-pointers in the series.#los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeousalexander #jared_mccain #mark_daigneault
Luka Doncic Uncertain About Return Timeline Amid Hamstring Injury Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic remains uncertain about when he will be able to return from a Grade 2 hamstring strain that has kept him sidelined since early April. Speaking for the first time since the injury occurred, Doncic expressed frustration over his inability to participate in the team’s playoff run, which has seen the Lakers advance to the second round of the NBA playoffs. The injury, sustained during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 2, has disrupted what was an MVP-caliber season for the 25-year-old Slovenian forward. Doncic described the situation as “very frustrating,” emphasizing the emotional toll of watching his team compete without him. “All I want to do is play basketball, especially this time. It’s the best time to play basketball,” he said during a press conference at the team hotel. He acknowledged the pride he feels for his teammates but lamented the difficulty of sitting idle while they carry the weight of his absence. The injury initially prompted doctors to estimate an eight-week recovery period, but Doncic has not yet reached that milestone. As of Wednesday, Game 2 against the Thunder was five weeks to the day since the injury, and Doncic admitted he is still in the early stages of rehabilitation. While he has begun running, he has avoided contact drills, stating that he is “doing everything I can” to ensure a safe return. “Every day, I’m doing stuff I’m supposed to do. Obviously recovery, now I’m working,” he said, adding that he feels “better every day” but remains cautious about rushing his comeback. Lakers coach JJ Redick addressed the team’s approach to balancing Doncic’s desire to return with the need to protect his health.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #jj_redick #oklahoma_city_thunder #austin_reaves
Oklahoma City Thunder Defeat Los Angeles Lakers in Western Conference Semifinals Opener The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a decisive 108-90 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series on Tuesday, May 6, 2026. The win gave the Thunder a 1-0 series lead, with Game 2 set for Thursday in Oklahoma City. The result underscored the Thunder’s dominance over the Lakers, who struggled to generate consistent offense without their injured star player, Luka Doncic, who missed the game with a left hamstring injury. Chet Holmgren led the Thunder with 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell each contributed 18 points. The Thunder’s balanced scoring attack, combined with their sharp shooting—hitting 49.4% of their field goals and making 13 of 30 three-pointers—proved too much for the Lakers, who shot just 41.7% from the field. Oklahoma City’s defense also forced 17 turnovers, further complicating the Lakers’ offensive efforts. The Lakers, missing injured All-Star Jalen Williams for the third consecutive game, faced significant challenges. LeBron James carried the team with 27 points, but his efforts were overshadowed by the team’s overall struggles. Rui Hachimura added 18 points, while Austin Reaves, who averaged 23.3 points in the regular season, was held to just eight points on 3-for-16 shooting. The Lakers’ inability to generate consistent scoring was evident early, as they fell behind by double digits in the second half. The game’s first quarter saw the Lakers take an early 7-0 lead, fueled by LeBron’s five points. However, the Thunder quickly adjusted, outscoring the Lakers 11-5 in the first quarter to take a 31-26 lead.#los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeousalexander #chet_holmgren #ajay_mitchell
Luka Doncic Injury Update Before Lakers-Thunder Game 1 of NBA Playoffs Luka Doncic, the NBA’s leading scorer, has been ruled out for Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers. The decision was announced on Monday, confirming that the Slovenian star will miss the start of Round 2 of the playoffs due to a Grade 2 left hamstring strain he sustained on April 2. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Doncic is progressing in his recovery but remains on a “slow path,” with reports indicating he is participating in more activities on the court but has not yet resumed full-contact workouts or running. The Thunder’s matchup against the Lakers will proceed without their star player, a significant setback for a team that relies heavily on his scoring and playmaking. The injury comes as the Thunder also face the absence of All-Star guard Jalen Williams, who was ruled out for Game 1. Williams, who suffered a Grade 1 left hamstring strain during Game 2 of the Thunder’s first-round playoff series against the Phoenix Suns on April 22, will miss the matchup. Despite the Thunder’s sweep of the Suns in the first round, the loss of both Doncic and Williams leaves the team with a depleted roster heading into the high-stakes Game 1. Game 1 between the Thunder and Lakers is set for Tuesday, May 5, at 7:30 p.m. CT at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The matchup will be broadcast on Peacock and streamed via Fubo, with the latter offering a free trial for viewers. The game is expected to be a critical test for both teams, as the Thunder aim to advance further in the playoffs while the Lakers seek to bounce back from their recent struggles.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeous_alexander #jalen_williams
Ahead of Lakers-Thunder series, Mark Daigneault shows JJ Redick respect Mark Daigneault, head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, has publicly acknowledged JJ Redick’s coaching performance ahead of the 2026 NBA playoffs’ Round 2 matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. The two coaches, who have maintained a professional relationship, expressed mutual respect despite their teams’ contrasting paths to the postseason. Daigneault highlighted Redick’s ability to lead the Lakers to playoff success in his first two seasons as head coach, including a Round 1 victory over the Houston Rockets in six games. The Lakers entered the series without their star player, Luka Doncic, who remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. The Thunder, as the reigning NBA champions, are entering the Round 2 series as heavy favorites. They swept the Phoenix Suns in the first round, continuing their dominance in the Western Conference. Daigneault noted the Lakers’ underdog status, emphasizing that the Thunder have historically outperformed them in regular-season matchups. However, he acknowledged the unpredictability of playoff basketball, citing the Boston Celtics’ first-round exit as a reminder that paper strength does not always translate to court success. Daigneault’s praise for Redick centered on his adaptability and leadership. The two coaches first met during Redick’s time as an ESPN analyst, when they participated in production meetings. Daigneault described their interactions as positive, noting Redick’s ability to “put his team in positions of advantage on both ends of the floor.” He also highlighted Redick’s success in navigating high-pressure situations, including guiding the Lakers to the playoffs in consecutive seasons and winning a series without their MVP candidate.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #jj_redick #oklahoma_city_thunder #mark_daigneault
Austin Reaves Defends Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Free-Throw Controversy The Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers are set to clash in the NBA playoffs’ Round 2 series, with tensions already simmering over a contentious topic: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s free-throw fouls. Thunder fans, known for their vocal presence on social media, have repeatedly criticized Gilgeous-Alexander for what they perceive as intentional contact and excessive flopping to draw penalties. This debate has resurfaced as the Thunder, heavy favorites to advance, prepare to face the Lakers in a high-stakes matchup. Austin Reaves, a Lakers forward and fellow free-throw artist, offered a rare counterpoint to the criticism. During a press conference, Reaves addressed the controversy with measured restraint, acknowledging the sensitivity of the issue while defending Gilgeous-Alexander’s approach. “I know that’s a tough topic to talk about because everybody blows it out of proportion,” Reaves said. “He wants to win and is gonna do whatever it takes to win. If it’s shoot 20 free throws, so be it. If I shoot 20 free throws, I’d be happy. I don’t think there’s any bad intentions with trying to get to the line.” Reaves’ comments stand in contrast to the broader NBA narrative, where players like Gilgeous-Alexander and himself have become synonymous with their ability to draw fouls and convert free throws. For Gilgeous-Alexander, the shift from a mid-level scorer to a superstar has been closely tied to his free-throw numbers. Over his first four NBA seasons, he averaged just 4.9 free-throw attempts per game. However, as he transitioned into a key offensive threat, that number surged to 9.3 attempts per game in his next four seasons.#los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeousalexander #austin_reaves #nba_playoffs
Austin Reaves Sets the Record Straight on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Biggest Criticism Over the past few years, Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has faced persistent criticism for his free-throw shooting, with critics labeling him as a "free-throw merchant" due to his high number of attempts. Despite statistical evidence contradicting this narrative, the label has persisted. However, ahead of the Thunder’s semifinal series against the Los Angeles Lakers, one of Gilgeous-Alexander’s primary rivals, Austin Reaves, has taken a public stance to challenge this perception. During a recent practice media session, Reaves addressed the topic of foul-drawing, acknowledging the difficulty of discussing it due to the tendency of fans to overemphasize the issue. When asked about Gilgeous-Alexander’s 9.0 free throw attempts per game during the regular season and 12.3 in the playoffs, Reaves attributed it to the player’s determination to win. “He wants to win and is gonna do whatever it takes to win,” Reaves said. “If it’s shoot 20 free throws, so be it.” This perspective marks Reaves as the latest prominent figure to reframe Gilgeous-Alexander’s foul-drawing ability as a strategic skill rather than an unethical act. Former NBA guard and analyst Lou Williams echoed this sentiment, explaining that defenses fear Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring potential, which drives their aggressive attempts to foul him. “That’s why [defenders] respect the head fake,” Williams noted, adding that their defensive strategies are a direct response to his threat. This analysis highlights how Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to draw fouls is a byproduct of his offensive prowess rather than a flaw.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #oklahoma_city_thunder #shai_gilgeousalexander #austin_reaves
