In a highly anticipated rematch, the Oklahoma City Thunder faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Paycom Center. After a dominant victory just two days prior, the Lakers looked to continue their momentum. However, the night took a dramatic turn when star player Luka Dončić was ejected, paving the way for the Thunder to seize control and secure a 136-120 win.
The game started with an intensity reminiscent of playoff basketball, as both teams showcased their shooting prowess. Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith, who was starting in place of the injured Rui Hachimura, each opened the game with two 3-pointers, setting the tone early for the Lakers. Despite the Lakers’ hot start, the Thunder responded with impressive shooting of their own, leading to a thrilling first quarter that ended in a 43-43 tie.
As the second quarter progressed, the Thunder began to assert their dominance. With Alex Caruso’s defensive prowess igniting a 10-0 run, Oklahoma City pulled ahead. Despite the Lakers’ efforts to respond, including free throws and a triple from Dončić, they went into halftime trailing 80-72. The Lakers struggled defensively, allowing the Thunder to capitalize on their mistakes.
Coming out of halftime, the Lakers looked revitalized. LeBron James quickly scored eight points, helping to cut the deficit. Dončić then hit a long-range three-pointer, swinging the momentum back in favor of Los Angeles. With Jarred Vanderbilt contributing on both ends of the floor, the Lakers managed to flip a 10-point halftime deficit into a 98-97 lead by the end of the third quarter. The Lakers’ defense tightened significantly, holding the Thunder to just 17 points in the third.
However, the game took a pivotal turn in the fourth quarter. With the score tied and momentum seemingly on the Lakers’ side, Dončić received his second technical foul and was ejected for arguing with a fan. This incident shifted the tide dramatically, as the Thunder capitalized on the Lakers’ loss of focus, going on a staggering 24-4 run. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had been making tough shots all night, led the Thunder in closing out the game decisively.
Dončić finished the game with 23 points, three rebounds, and five assists, while LeBron James led the Lakers with 28 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Austin Reaves contributed significantly as well, adding 24 points to the scoreboard. Dorian Finney-Smith’s shooting was notable, as he finished with 12 points, hitting four of his eight attempts from beyond the arc.
The Lakers’ shooting was impressive, especially in the first quarter where they shot 77% from three-point range. However, their defensive lapses and turnovers ultimately cost them the game. The Thunder, who had suffered a rare defeat just days earlier, bounced back with a strong performance, demonstrating their resilience and depth.
Looking ahead, the Lakers have little time to regroup as they prepare for a challenging matchup against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. This game will be particularly significant for Dončić, as it marks his return to Dallas since being traded. The Lakers will be eager to bounce back and secure a win, especially after the emotional rollercoaster of the previous game.
As the NBA playoff picture begins to take shape, every game becomes crucial. The Lakers, currently sitting at a 47-30 record, need to find consistency and tighten their defense if they wish to make a deep playoff run. In contrast, the Thunder, with an impressive 64-13 record, continue to solidify their position as one of the top teams in the league.
In the end, the Lakers’ inability to maintain their composure following Dončić’s ejection proved to be the turning point in a game filled with high-stakes drama and intense competition. As the season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how both teams adapt and respond to the challenges that lie ahead.
