On May 12, two NBA playoff games took place, bringing significant updates to the postseason landscape. The Los Angeles Lakers failed to pull off a miracle, falling 115-110 at home to the Oklahoma City Thunder, resulting in a 4-0 sweep. In the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Detroit Pistons 112-103 to even their series at 2-2.
In the Lakers-Thunder matchup, Los Angeles was missing Luka Dončić, and their roster depth couldn’t match Oklahoma City’s. After losing the first three games by wide margins, a 0-3 deficit seemed insurmountable, as no NBA team has ever come back from such a hole. Fans hoped the Lakers would at least avoid a sweep at home in Game 4, but despite a valiant effort, they fell short by five points.
Austin Reaves, who had faced criticism for poor performance since returning from injury, found his rhythm early, going 3-for-3 in the first quarter and scoring 15 points in the first half. LeBron James added 10 points in the half, but the rest of the Lakers struggled, going through a lengthy drought without a field goal in the second quarter. The Lakers trailed 49-45 at halftime.
Reaves committed multiple turnovers in the third quarter and picked up three fouls, allowing the Thunder to extend their lead. However, Los Angeles didn’t fold. Jaxson Hayes threw down consecutive dunks, and Luke Kennard hit a three-pointer, sparking a 16-7 run that gave the Lakers the lead.
Reaves finished with eight turnovers. In the fourth quarter, James kept the Lakers in the game, but the Thunder’s McCain and Mitchell hit crucial shots. Mitchell scored 10 points in the final period, helping Oklahoma City regain control. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander also drilled a key three-pointer and went 4-for-4 from the foul line, scoring nine points in the quarter. Reaves missed a potential game-tying three, and the Lakers lost 115-110, ending their season with a sweep and failing to reach the Western Conference Finals.
James did all he could, shooting 8-for-18 (2-for-6 from three) and 8-for-10 from the line for 24 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists. At age 41, he continues to compete at a high level and will need time to decide his future. Reaves had 27 points, seven rebounds, and six assists but with eight turnovers. Rui Hachimura was a bright spot for the Lakers in the playoffs, shooting 9-for-15 for 25 points and five boards. Hayes added 18 points and five rebounds. This marks the sixth time the Thunder have advanced to the Western Conference Finals, where they await the winner of the San Antonio Spurs vs. Minnesota Timberwolves series.
Over in the East, the Cavaliers defeated the Pistons 112-103, with a decisive third quarter where Cleveland outscored Detroit 38-21. Donovan Mitchell exploded in the second half, finishing with 43 points on 13-for-26 shooting, along with five rebounds. He scored 39 points in the second half, tying a playoff record. James Harden contributed 24 points (5-for-14 shooting, 9-for-9 from the line) and 11 assists with three steals. The Cavs have tied the series 2-2, forcing a pivotal Game 5 in Detroit. Cleveland must find a way to win on the road to gain control, as they have yet to secure any away victories in this year’s playoffs.
