LeBron James Sends Strong Message About Thunder Ahead of Round 2 Series
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in a second-round playoff series after sweeping the Houston Rockets in the first round. LeBron James acknowledged the Thunder's strength, emphasizing their physical defense and the challenge posed by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Lakers may be at a disadvantage with Luka Doncic likely sidelined, while the Thunder could also be without Jalen Williams due to injury.
- ▪The Lakers lost all three regular-season matchups against the Thunder by an average of about 29 points.
- ▪LeBron James highlighted the Thunder's physical, handsy defense and their ability to generate transition offense.
- ▪James referred to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the 'head of the snake' and a possible back-to-back MVP.
- ▪Luka Doncic is not expected to be ready for the start of the series, leaving more offensive responsibility for James and Austin Reaves.
- ▪Jalen Williams is listed as week-to-week with a grade 1 hamstring strain, potentially limiting the Thunder's depth.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
By Cole SullivanShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.The Los Angeles Lakers faced the Oklahoma City Thunder three times this season and lost all three matchups by an average margin of roughly 29 points.Now, the two teams are set to meet in a seven-game second-round playoff series after the Lakers defeated the Houston Rockets 98–78 on Friday night to close out their first-round series, led by LeBron James.Following the win, James offered a detailed assessment of the Thunder, highlighting both their defensive pressure and star power, including MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.“Obviously we’re playing against the defending champions.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Newsweek.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Newsweek
