OKLAHOMA CITY — LeBron James put on a sensational display, scoring a season-high 40 points, to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 129-120 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night, snapping their four-game losing streak.
The 38-year-old James was exceptional, shooting 13 of 20 from the field, including a perfect five 3-pointers, and making all nine of his free throws. His all-around performance also included seven rebounds, seven assists, and two key blocks.
Oklahoma City had rallied to cut down what was a 26-point Lakers’ lead to just eight points in the fourth quarter. However, James stepped up, scoring 11 crucial points in the final 4:29 to secure the win for the Lakers.
Reflecting on his impact, James expressed satisfaction in his ability to make decisive plays and close out the game, especially when the Thunder were mounting a comeback.
Anthony Davis, who had emphasized the importance of this game, contributed significantly with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. Rui Hachimura added 21 points, and Austin Reaves provided 11 points and nine assists for the Lakers, who improved their record after a challenging stretch since winning the In-Season Tournament.
The Lakers were efficient, shooting 52.2% from the field and recording a season-high 37 assists with just nine turnovers. James highlighted the team’s cohesive play, noting their focus on accurate passing and minimizing turnovers.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 34 points, while Jalen Williams added 28 points. Chet Holmgren contributed a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Thunder, who had been on a winning run, couldn’t overcome the Lakers’ offensive onslaught.
Hachimura’s 16 points in the first half were instrumental in the Lakers establishing a 71-59 lead at halftime. The Lakers maintained their momentum in the third quarter, with James and Davis combining for impressive plays, forcing Oklahoma City to call multiple timeouts.
Despite the Thunder reducing the deficit to single digits in the fourth quarter, the Lakers, led by James’ late heroics, held on for the victory.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the Lakers’ desperation for a win and the need for his team to raise their level of play, especially in the first half.
Looking ahead, the Lakers host the Boston Celtics on Monday, while the Thunder will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night.
