The Los Angeles Lakers are on the verge of elimination despite LeBron’s heroic efforts following consecutive defeats. Luka Doncic’s absence has severely hurt the Lakers’ chase for the next round. The Oklahoma City Thunder are moving closer to the Western Conference final.

Read more: https://verticalitysports.com/2026/05/02/lakers-survive-rockets-scare-to-advance/

First Face-Off: LeBron’s heroic efforts in vain

On May 6th, the Lakers faced Oklahoma City for the first fixture in Paycom Center, Oklahoma. This was a disaster for the Lakers; they failed to win a single quarter. From the Lakers, LeBron James did everything he could, contributing 33 points. While Rui Hachimura scored 20 points and Marcus Smart contributed 19 points. This was a respectable contribution from these stars, but the Lakers still lost by 18 points. The poor scoring in the 3rd and 4th quarters proved costly, as they could have won these quarters. Jared McCain’s thrilling cameo of 14 points in just 15 minutes was impressive. Isaiah Joe also impressed with ten points contribution in the 11 minutes he played.

Second Face-Off: Austin Reaves steps up

On May 8th, the Lakers faced Oklahoma City in the second game at Paycom Center in Oklahoma. This was the Lakers’ opportunity to respond. The Lakers performed well in the second quarter and briefly took a one-point lead. However, their struggle returned in the following quarters, resulting in a costly defeat despite leading. Oklahoma secured another 18-point victory over the Lakers. Austin Reaves led the scoreline, scoring 31 points and six assists, while LeBron added 29 points. Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart also contributed, but their efforts were not enough. Oklahoma’s balanced attack featured a strong performance from Chet Holmgren, Ajay Mitchell, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, while Jared McCain provided a major spark for the home side.

Last Bow: Now or never

The Los Angeles Lakers already lost the first two games and are on the verge of exiting from the Western Conference Final. Luka Doncic’s injury continues to haunt the team despite LeBron James contributing consistently. However, the gap between the two teams remains evident. A third consecutive defeat would leave the Lakers facing an almost impossible comeback. Meanwhile, Oklahoma will try to strengthen its psychological advantage in the series.

---