Lakers vs. Thunder NBA playoff predictions, odds, schedule and how to watch

The 2026 NBA playoffs shift into high gear as the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to battle the No. 4 seed Los Angeles Lakers in a Western Conference semifinals showdown.

The Thunder remain perfect in first-round action, pushing their record to 12-0 after a commanding sweep of the Phoenix Suns. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued to shine for the Thunder with his elite scoring, while Chet Holmgren anchored the defense and contributed clutch plays. Oklahoma City’s first-round dominant run also secured a valuable rest period ahead of the matchup with the Lakers.

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The Lakers advanced to the second round after a 4-2 series victory over the Houston Rockets. With Luka Doncic sidelined by a Grade 2 hamstring strain, LeBron James continued to show up for the Lakers, including a standout performance in Game 6 with 28 points, eight assists and seven rebounds. Austin Reaves, returning from an oblique injury, also made a major impact, providing crucial offensive contributions when the Lakers needed them most. This marks Los Angeles’s first trip to the second round since 2023, and the team remains optimistic that Doncic could rejoin the lineup if their postseason run continues.

Here’s what you need to know as the Oklahoma City Thunder host the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the second round of the NBA playoffs.

More: From stars to sixth men, key players to watch in NBA conference semifinals

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Coolest kicks of the NBA playoffs as stars show their sneaker style

The NBA playoffs bring out more than high‑stakes basketball, as stars showcase their sneaker style on the league’s biggest stage.

See the coolest kicks worn during the 2026 NBA Playoffs, where footwear becomes part of the spotlight.

Above, The shoes of Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks are seen during the first half of Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden on April 18, 2026, in New York City.

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Coolest kicks of the NBA playoffs as stars show their sneaker style

The NBA playoffs bring out more than high‑stakes basketball, as stars showcase their sneaker style on…

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Publish date : 2026-05-05 13:49:00

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