Despite a rough start, the Los Angeles Lakers managed to secure an impressive bounce-back victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, 116-104, at the Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday (PHL time).
Turnovers plagued the Lakers throughout the game, totaling 20, with 12 occurring in the first half.
However, their defense improved as the game progressed, limiting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to 11 points and Chet Holmgren to seven points in the first two quarters.
Hustle makes it happen pic.twitter.com/b4FefCsKFL
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) March 5, 2024
Early in the third quarter, the Lakers extended their lead to 11 points, but the Thunder narrowed it to two after a series of Lakers' turnovers.
However, timely three-pointers from D'Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves halted the Thunder's momentum, allowing the Lakers to regain control.
The fourth quarter saw Russell's stellar performance, as he scored three consecutive three-pointers to extend the Lakers' lead to 24 points.
DLo has this whole place HYYYYYPE 🥶 pic.twitter.com/Z73hIatseM
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) March 5, 2024
Russell finished with 26 points en route to the victory.
LeBron James initially struggled offensively but nearly achieved a triple-double with 19 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists.
Anthony Davis added 24 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, a steal, and three blocks.
With the win, the Lakers move to 34-29, nineth in the standings, while OKC slid to the second spot at 42-19.
