The Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the NBA playoffs on Wednesday night, falling 115-110 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4 of their first-round series. The Thunder completed a 4-0 sweep, advancing to the Western Conference Finals with a dominant performance led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 35 points and dished out 8 assists.
LeBron James finished with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists, but he also sustained a noticeable limp late in the game after stepping on teammate Rui Hachimura’s foot. Despite his efforts, James couldn’t prevent the Lakers from being swept for the fourth time in his career.
Austin Reaves struggled defensively and committed 8 turnovers, though he managed 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Rui Hachimura added 25 points and 5 rebounds, while Jaxson Hayes contributed 18 points and 5 rebounds.
The Thunder built a strong lead early, with Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey combining for key plays. Oklahoma City’s depth proved too much for the Lakers, as they also got 28 points from Josh Giddey and 16 points and 9 rebounds from Chet Holmgren.
The Lakers kept the game close in the fourth quarter, but crucial mistakes down the stretch, including a missed three-pointer by Reaves in the final seconds, sealed their fate. With the loss, the Lakers are now eliminated, and questions surround James’ future with the team.
According to sources close to the situation, James has not yet decided on his next move, but competing for a championship remains his top priority. Despite the sweep, the Lakers showed glimpses of fight, but the Thunder’s balanced attack and stifling defense proved too much to overcome.