The defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the Los Angeles Lakers, 131-108, in Game 3 of the NBA Western Conference semifinals at Crypto.com Arena in California on Sunday, May 10, 2026 (Philippine time).
Thunder Take Commanding 3-0 Series Lead
With the victory, the Thunder now hold a dominant 3-0 series lead, needing just one more win to advance to the Western Conference Finals.
Ajay Mitchell recorded career playoff highs of 24 points and 10 assists, while reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 23 points and nine assists for the Thunder.
The Thunder became the sixth defending champion in league history to start the postseason with a 7-0 record. They swept the Phoenix Suns 4-0 in the first round and could potentially do the same to the Lakers in Game 4 on Tuesday.
Lakers Struggle Without Doncic
Los Angeles is struggling in the series due to the continued absence of scoring champion Luka Doncic, who has missed the last 14 games with a hamstring strain suffered on April 2.
The Lakers relied on veteran LeBron James, who posted 19 points, eight assists, and six rebounds, while shooter Austin Reaves added 17 points and nine assists. However, the production from James and Reaves was not enough to match the Thunder's offensive firepower.
Guard Alex Caruso of the Thunder was also a key contributor, while LeBron James and Rui Hachimura could only watch as the Lakers fell behind.
