For the first time since January of 2022, the Lakers are .500 after defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-111. They are in a tie for seventh place in the Western Conference.
The night started off a bit discouraging when the news broke that D’Angelo Russell wouldn’t be suiting up due to hip soreness, but with a hustle that runs deep and a synergy no one’s seen this year, the team managed. With the game having a tremendous impact on both teams’ post-season play, the Lakers prevailed.
Anthony Davis came in tonight and caused a commotion on both ends down below with 37 points and 15 rebounds. In fact, he started the night with three dunks paving the way to 15 points in his first 10 minutes.
“We talk about that next man mentality, and A represented all that today,” Head Coach Darvin Ham said postgame.
“I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge Lonnie Walker. “...He’s the definition of what a pro is supposed to do at this level.”
Lonnie, who was a starter a little over a month ago, fell out of the lineup after the trade deadline. Those circumstances can really mess with someone’s head and cause a lot of confusion. After a 20-point game with three steals, Lonnie said he’s been finding solace in trusting “divine timing.” “Every day I've just been in the gym, just being positive, understanding what we’re trying to do here and accomplish,” Walker IV said.
“We don’t win this game without him,” Davis said, and Coach Ham echoed.
OKC was able to cut a big Lakers lead. The team was hot from three behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, who had 27 points respectively and Giddey grabbed 18 boards as well.
The Thunder were able to tie the game at 105 in the fourth. This was concerning. But the guys didn’t falter. The chemistry and togetherness are noticeable with this fairly new squad and it’s refreshing. In trying times, they took accountability and maintained their focus.
There’s no job too big or too small. Dennis Schröder stopped two Thunder fast breaks in a matter of seconds and put up some crucial shots in the fourth quarter, finishing with 21 points and six assists. And Austin Reaves made all four of his attempts at the line and put up 11 points, nine assists, and six rebounds.
Los Angeles’ bench outscored Oklahoma City’s second unit by a 40-28 margin. The team’s no longer at a deficit, finally. They’ve got the next eight games to spin this season on its head, starting Sunday.