Why Lakers wont threaten Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder in repeat bid

“How can the Thunder win this series?”Simple.As long as the team bus arrives on time. That’s a joke, but it’s also deeply-rooted in truth. Because if the Thunder simply show up as themselves—not some overcaffeinated version trying too hard or an overcautious one afraid of the moment—this series will be over quickly. The Lakers had to find a new identity in the postseason without their MVP Luka Doncic. The Thunder don’t need a new identity.OKC are the reigning NBA champions, and a 64-win machine that crushed anything in their path during the regular season.

They chewed through the Suns in the first round like it was a warmup drill at practice. Yes, the Lakers are gritty and resilient, they’re also older, thinner, and injured.  California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.Please provide a valid email.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story So when it comes to what OKC needs to do to advance to the Western Conference Finals for the second straight season, let’s not overcomplicate it. All the Thunder need to do to win this series is do exactly what they’ve been doing for the last two years. That starts on defense where the Thunder are already the best in the league. OKC has a backline eraser in Chet Holmgren, who finished second for NBA Defensive Player of the Year this season.

Holmgren doesn’t just block shots, he erases them entirely.The Rockets didn’t have Steven Adams in their first-round series so LeBron James and the Lakers were able to get to the paint, especially when their perimeter shots were falling.

Holmgren takes that away from Los Angeles. The Thunder are also the second-best team in the NBA at forcing turnovers.The Lakers are vulnerable with the ball.

That’s a recipe for disaster.The Thunder can break this series open simply by continuing to be surgical in their defensive ball press...