Reaves struggles as Lakers fall to Thunder in Game 1
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Oklahoma City — On Tuesday the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Los Angeles Lakers 108-90 in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals, while Lakers guard Austin Reaves, returning from a Grade 2 left oblique strain, shot 3-for-16, missed all five three-point attempts, and had four turnovers. LeBron James and coach J.J. Redick acknowledged Reaves' uneven performance on Tuesday; reporters noted he is 14-for-46 since returning in the first round. The Lakers are scheduled to play Game 2 on Thursday at Paycom Center, with analysts and team staff urging adjustments before Games 3 and 4 in Los Angeles on Saturday and Monday.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- Reaves missed roughly one month with a Grade 2 left oblique strain before returning late in the first round.
- Reaves returned in Game 5 of the Lakers’ first-round series versus the Houston Rockets.
- Since his return he has shot 14-for-46 overall and 2-for-17 on three-point attempts.
- Tuesday: Oklahoma City defeated the Lakers 108-90 in Western Conference semifinal Game 1; Reaves shot 3-for-16 with four turnovers.
- Game 2 is scheduled for Thursday at Paycom Center; Games 3 and 4 are set for the following Saturday and Monday in Los Angeles.
Why This Matters to You
If you're a Lakers fan, Reaves' performance could impact the team's playoff run. His shooting slump since returning from injury is a concern. Watch Game 2 on Thursday to see if he improves.
The Bottom Line
Reaves' return hasn't gone as hoped for the Lakers. His struggles contributed to their Game 1 loss. The team needs him to step up in Game 2. If you know a Lakers fan, they might appreciate this update.
- Articles Published:
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- Left Leaning:
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The Oklahoma City Thunder benefited directly from improved defensive execution and a 108-90 Game 1 victory, which put them ahead in the Western Conference semifinal and preserved home-court momentum heading into Game 2.
The Los Angeles Lakers suffered from offensive struggles, notably Austin Reaves' shooting slump after returning from a Grade 2 left oblique strain, which contributed to turnovers and the Game 1 loss, placing pressure on rotations and strategy adjustments.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
Austin Reaves is not himself, putting the Lakers at an even bigger disadvantage
The New York Times
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