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00:00Welcome to Peacock NBA Monday presented by Xfinity and as we sprint towards all-star
00:17weekend in Los Angeles we are here at crypto.com arena for a big-time Western Conference showdown
00:23between the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder and the number five team in the
00:28Western Conference the Los Angeles Lakers OKC trying to get back in the win column and avoid a
00:34three-game losing streak for the first time in two plus years as for the Lakers they feel like
00:39they're playing some of their best basketball on the back of the ageless one LeBron James welcome
00:44courtside everybody no Eagle Brian Scalabrini Lakers legend Derek Fisher so glad you could join us
00:49tonight we look at this matchup and we start with the defending champions Oklahoma City comes in
00:53having lost two in a row which is just not something we're accustomed to seeing but the injury bug has
00:58hit them however they've got some reinforcements tonight Jalen Williams yeah Jalen Williams back
01:02so you'll get a lot of featured with him running some point guard bringing the ball initiating the
01:07offense they'll like that they've been playing through Isaiah Hartenstein as well so offensively
01:11we know what they're gonna do they're gonna play fast they're gonna attack they're gonna drive the
01:15ball defensively that's what I want to see can they take the Lakers in the and the isolation and
01:20stop them from getting to the paint and making play and keep these guys off the free throw line
01:24coach Jagdahl was all about not fouling but still being physical
01:29this Thunder team is built on their defense that's how they won the championship last year
01:34we watched the Seattle Seahawks win the Super Bowl on the defensive end yesterday
01:38it's all they're gonna know it's all about defense we're gonna see a lot of it tonight from the Thunder
01:42defense might win championships but Derek we look at the Lakers and offense right now looks like it's running
01:47pretty smoothly even without Luka Doncic it is running smoothly in particular getting to the free throw line
01:53that's really where the Lakers are able to set their defense take advantage of matchups
01:58LeBron is still a difficult matchup for every team in the NBA Austin Reeves returning is also a guy that
02:04puts a lot of pressure on the paint when he's penetrating and creating off the dribble I think
02:09the biggest thing for the Lakers honestly guys is can they keep the game close enough to have a chance
02:14to be in the lead in the third quarter or possibly leading into the fourth quarter if they can get to
02:19that point they are one of the best teams if not the best clutch team in the league and one thing
02:24from the Lakers they got to defend the rim these guys are going to drive it they got to meet them
02:27at the rim and they Oklahoma City shoots over 66 percent at the paint they're Lakers in for a long
02:33night all right so defense is clearly the theme so why not get our guys to talk some some defensive
02:38stalwarts we're going to have Robbie Hummel with case and Wallace but let's start with Austin Rivers
02:42and Jared Vanderbilt here with Jared Vanderbilt Vando a big part of your game is high energy
02:47you come into the game each night and change the way the game is played just with your energy how
02:51does a guy like you do that every single night when you don't know when you're going to get in the
02:55game how many minutes you're going to play you come in and have that type of focus what does it take to
02:58do that I mean just controlling what you can control that's one thing I control every night my energy
03:04and I know for this team especially sometimes we start a little closer just being that impact bringing
03:10that physicality that energy that's what I pride my game on and just try to bring it every single night
03:14I asked JJ this earlier you guys have had different lineups all year long three your main three guys
03:20have been out only you've had them ten times you're seven and three with all three but you guys have
03:24managed to still be a top five seed in the West what's been the mentality just next man up next man up
03:30and just finding a way um like last game it wasn't the prettiest game but we dug deep we were physical
03:35and uh we grinded it out so it's gonna take everybody coming together and uh just playing hard and
03:39playing together hey appreciate your time best of luck man stay healthy
03:42case and certainly injury is a big part of what this group team has dealt with this season
03:49you get Jalen Williams back tonight how does that change what this group's gonna do
03:52uh I feel like it gives us a little more fire you know he's coming in with you know the ability to
03:57score the ball at a high level so just having him on the floor uh giving us another look uh to score
04:03the ball you're you're playing some of the best offensive basketball of your career here these last
04:07five games what's the defense been giving you a lot of open lanes you know just taking what the
04:11uh defense gives me and you know my teammates trusting in me to make the right play case and
04:16thanks good luck tonight thank you star-studded affair in the land of stars Jalen Williams Austin
04:23Reeves Lou Dort and of course LeBron James lobbing it up to a dunk contest participant we are set for
04:30action next lakers and thunder on peacock
04:35let's check out tonight's live line draft kings is the number one sports book for live betting
04:40to get in on the action download the app and use promo code dunk when you sign up
04:48all set for action as we walk into peacock nba monday presented by xfinity it's the lakers
04:54and the thunder and oklahoma city trying to get back in the win column here's their starting five
05:03casein wallace kentucky ruggins lord arizona state jayna loyams santa clara university
05:11chet holmgren kentucky university isaiah hartenstein germany
05:18it is the 22nd different starting lineup for the oklahoma city thunder
05:22the defending nba champions have dealt with the injury both really throughout the season and mark
05:27dagnoll has masterfully found his way through it they are 40 and 13 entering this game still the
05:32best record in the nba but detroit is right on their heels entering tonight and we're locked in a
05:38close one last we checked with the hornets meanwhile for the lakers 32 and 19 coming in winners of three
05:46in a row still without luka donchitz but as mentioned plenty of star power as we meet their starting unit
05:52in the
06:19Here I am.
06:49And now, celebrating their 66th season in Southern California, 78th year NBA, the franchise
07:02with 17 NBA titles, the home team, your Los Angeles Lakers.
07:09At 1-4, number 23, 69, 23rd campaign from St. Vincent's, St. Mary's High School, an all-star, LeBron James.
07:22The other 4, number 28, 6, 8, and 7th year from Japan, Rui Hatsumura.
07:30At center, number 5, 17, 8th campaign out of Arizona, DeAndre Ayton.
07:35At 1-4, number 12, 6, 7th, 4th season from Wake Forest, Jake LaRabia.
07:44At the other guard, number 36, 6'3", 12-year from Oklahoma State, Marcus Smart.
07:52Head coach, J.J. Reddick.
07:58J.J. Reddick has his group ready to go, as we are as well.
08:03It's another edition of On the Bench on this Peacock NBA Monday.
08:07We've got Austin Rivers with the Lakers and Robbie Hummel with the Thunder.
08:11So, Austin, you've got the home team.
08:12What do you got for us?
08:13Yeah, the Lakers coming in this red hot, three in a row.
08:16They've done it without Luka Doncic over the last two games.
08:18Obviously, he went down just a couple games ago.
08:21But that's been the story for this team all year.
08:22They've only had their big three in ten games.
08:24They're seven and three, by the way.
08:26But they've just figured it out.
08:27It's been the next man up mentality.
08:29They struggle with shooting.
08:30They've added Luke Kennard, which will definitely help.
08:33But that's what they win.
08:34They win games with effort.
08:35They win games with tenacity.
08:36J.J. talked about it.
08:38What Vando brings and a bunch of these other guys,
08:40they just keep finding ways to compete and win until they get at full strength.
08:43Tonight, they're going to have a big test for one of the best defensive teams in the league.
08:47And they're doing it without their best playmaker.
08:49So, tonight will be a good one.
08:50And certainly for the Thunder, you look at all this team has been through from an injury standpoint.
08:54The third most missed games in the entire association.
08:58But with all that being said, there is a silver lining.
09:01Some of these role players that have seen their role expand.
09:04You're talking about Cason Wallace, Isaiah Joe, guys that have had to give more.
09:08You could throw Aaron Wiggins into that mix.
09:10You get Jalen Williams back in the fold here tonight.
09:13Obviously, Shinsha Gilgis-Alexander, he'll be out until the All-Star break.
09:18You get him back.
09:19You get these role guys playing with confidence.
09:21Oklahoma City, when they're healthy, they're an absolute unit.
09:24They just have to get to be that healthy for the rest of the year.
09:28Hey, Robbie, I'm going to give you a chance for redemption.
09:30Are you sitting next to Jimmy Goldstein?
09:31I am sitting next to Jimmy Goldstein.
09:33Big.
09:34Way to tee me up with an easy one right there.
09:36Where did he get you rolling?
09:37Get you a touch early.
09:38You know, you're known for not being the best teammate here.
09:41But maybe you learned something on the Super Bowl broadcast.
09:43Robbie only knows him because he's been to some of his parties.
09:45Oh, let's not go there.
09:47There's Jimmy in the hat looking dapper as ever and ready for some Laker basketball.
09:52He is at most of these home games.
09:54Legend.
09:55He is a legend around the NBA parts.
09:58We've got the NBA on NBC.
10:00Round ball rock playing in the arena.
10:03Josh Tibbetts, Eric Dalen, Andy Nagy are three officials tonight.
10:07We are underway.
10:08DeAndre Ayton just returned after missing the last game, the win against Golden State.
10:12He wins the opening tip for the Lakers.
10:14And then Marcus Smart proceeds to turn it over immediately.
10:17Jalen Williams in transition.
10:18Hit finish.
10:19Well, that's not a great sign for the Lakers, who turned it over 20 times in the game against the Thunder back in November.
10:26They cannot do that here tonight.
10:29Yeah.
10:31Austin, who are you saying what's up?
10:32Jackson Hayes.
10:33All right.
10:33He's handed me the smoke sign.
10:35Can you just tell him?
10:36Of a cigarette.
10:37Can you just tell him to make sure that he brings it for the dunk contest on Saturday?
10:41Absolutely.
10:42I'm excited.
10:42He's a high flyer, man.
10:43He catches a body usually every other night here.
10:46No doubt.
10:47Drive and kick.
10:48Here's Wallace out of the corner.
10:49Relocate.
10:50Williams.
10:51And they do such a good job of just moving the ball.
10:54Going from good to great.
10:55What Mark Daytonalt wants.
10:56He wants Case in the half court.
10:58And that'll help.
10:58High off the window from Case and Wallace.
11:00But how good, guys, has he been here?
11:02With all these injuries, Case and Wallace seeing his role offensively grow at such a high level.
11:08For his last five games, double figures, 16 points a game.
11:11He's been aggressive looking for his own offense.
11:14Laravia's response is there.
11:17And that's exactly what he can do.
11:18Spread the floor.
11:19This is what they need.
11:20They've kind of struggled shooting all year.
11:23Obviously, bringing Kennard in will help.
11:26I had to feel good for Jake Laravia, who was two of his last 20 from the three-point line.
11:30Woo!
11:31A little bit of a zone look defensively from the Lakers.
11:34Home run.
11:34Knocks down a triple.
11:35For those dare shots, Robbie.
11:37Boy, and a home run, a guy that hasn't necessarily shot it all that well.
11:40Just 23% the last seven games.
11:43But they're daring him to let it go.
11:45And he makes a pay there.
11:47Harten's smart on the drive.
11:48Harten's back there.
11:49Got a piece.
11:50I think that was supposed to be a lob.
11:52This is a Thunder team that generates more deflections.
11:55There's pretty much everybody in the NBA.
11:57Case and Wallace at the forefront of that, who lead the league in steals.
12:00Two to shoot.
12:01Knock away.
12:02And a steal.
12:02It's Hartenstein.
12:03Well, good thing they turned that over.
12:05LeBron threw him an absolute grenade, right?
12:08Yeah, here.
12:09Deal with this.
12:09Take this ball.
12:10What was Hartenstein supposed to do with that ball?
12:13And once again, a turnover that leads to an easy basket.
12:16Nobody picks up the basketball.
12:18And that's two early ones here for the Lakers.
12:22James put it closely by Dorton.
12:23Circles off the screen and floats it up and in.
12:25With the left.
12:27That's a fun matchup to watch right there.
12:29LeBron James, Lou Dorton, a physical defensive player.
12:32What a shot.
12:33Drifting to his left, too.
12:3620.7 rebounds, 10 assists in the win over Golden State for LeBron.
12:40That third straight win for the Lakers, Oklahoma City.
12:42Back-to-back losses coming into this one.
12:44Williams step away, can't finish it.
12:47Long rebound, knocked out of bounds by Williams.
12:49Well, you have to think that it's going to take some time here.
12:51Austin, here's what you're talking about, the grenade.
12:53Just take this.
12:57Yeah, like, what was he supposed to do with that?
13:01Ray.
13:02He didn't put him in a great spot, but he's a 22-time All-Star, so he could do that.
13:07Marcus Smart, too strong on three.
13:09A.J. Redick has made note that they've had a lot of major mysteries.
13:13On the back tap, Hardenstein leaves it, and Wallace can't finish it.
13:18But Hardenstein is such a factor in so many ways.
13:21Talking to Mark Dagnall before the game, he just sung his praises on both ends of the floor.
13:28James thought about it.
13:29Same spot.
13:31Different result for Smart.
13:32He buries one.
13:36A big shot by Marcus Smart.
13:37It's imperative these guys hit shots early.
13:40It's going to allow for Luka, I'm sorry, Reeves and James to operate with more space.
13:45They've struggled to shoot that three, but if these guys can hit shots early, it'll help them down the stretch.
13:49Here's the patented floater from Isaiah Hardenstein.
13:51He is one of those players where you know he's going left, but he's always getting back to that left hand.
13:56And then he gets back defensively.
13:58Scooped up by Holmgren.
14:00Marcus kind of, he did a great job driving there, just a little bit too deep.
14:03As soon as you touch the paint, if you don't have anything, you've done your job.
14:07Williams, a little shake and bake.
14:09Hardenstein has the mismatch with Larabia, but he can't finish at that time.
14:13Larabia understanding the scogging report there, Austin, and really shading that right shoulder.
14:18Yeah, keep that.
14:21It's that Larabia personnel.
14:22Oh, down goes Williams.
14:24And Larabia hits everything.
14:25Now, people will see that and be like, how do you air ball it?
14:28He was wide open.
14:29But you've got to understand, his, like, whole balance was thrown off there.
14:34He almost got taken down.
14:36And then you whip your head up, and things can kind of seem out of sorts.
14:39So, but I'd imagine if, now it's a home team, so it's different.
14:43But if you're a road team, and it's obviously more prevalent in college, when the crowd starts chanting air ball, do you feel that on the court?
14:50I do.
14:51I think it depends what type of game you're having, Austin, and what type of player you are.
14:55Yeah, if you're a guy who has high-volume shots.
14:57Yeah, you're just like, man, I've got ten more coming.
15:00But if you're getting five, six shots a game, that air ball can kind of mess with you.
15:03And people kind of missed and skew guys being open as an easy shot.
15:08Sometimes when you're so open, it messes with you.
15:11You see, you know.
15:14He got caught on the foot.
15:15Yeah, he didn't really have his balance, and then he kind of, like, rushed it.
15:18You can see it even have where the rib was on that one.
15:22James couldn't get to that pass.
15:24That's tight defense from Dort.
15:25That's what Lou Dort is going to look to do, make these catches tough and try to push LeBron James off his spot.
15:31Step away.
15:31Hots and more.
15:32Finds the bottom.
15:33That's a tough shot.
15:36He's loved those all season long, Austin.
15:38Fifty-six percent on shots off the bounce from two.
15:41He's got a good feel for the mid-range.
15:42I know it's a shot that's looked down upon, but if it's part of your game, it's a part of your game.
15:45Good defense there.
15:46It's a knockaway from Loravia.
15:49You can see Williams right now.
15:50He's still trying to get his rhythm.
15:51That little mislead might have messed with him, too.
15:54Now James will take him to the post.
15:56Double comes.
15:57Find the open man.
15:57Hachimura.
15:59And it's knocked out of bounds off of Oklahoma City.
16:02Isaiah Hardenstein thought for sure it was off of DeAndre Ayton, but it'll lead us to our first timeout on the floor.
16:08Just over five Xfinity.
16:10Out of our first timeout, Robbie Hummel, what do you got?
16:12Well, Mark Dagnolk certainly talking about that LeBron James post-up that led to an open Rui Hachimura three.
16:18He talked about just wanting to make LeBron make them come over and certainly be active defensively.
16:25They're going to stay with him and make him be a scorer first.
16:28They thought that it was just too easy at whipping that pass out to the perimeter.
16:33And then for going against this 2-3 zone the Lakers are throwing out there, they want to just run their stuff.
16:38It's like a man-to-man.
16:39Even if they're in a 2-3 shell, they're going to keep running their man-to-man offense.
16:43Yeah, and on this side, I didn't hear too much, but I did do some due diligence, Noah.
16:47I went over to Jackson Hayes and I talked to him about the dunk contest.
16:50I said, listen, you're a big, but we need to spark this up.
16:53The dunk contest in the All-Star Game has been a little bit of a letdown as of recent years.
16:57We haven't had one spark that excitement probably since, what, Levine, Aaron Gordon?
17:02He said, trust me, I've got to show him for you.
17:03So I'm like, okay, okay.
17:06So some good intel, man.
17:07I was a little worried about the dunk contest, but it seems like we're in good hands.
17:10Okay, Austin, you do know who you're sitting next to?
17:14Oh, look at this.
17:16He's back.
17:17He's back.
17:17Directly next to Diane Cannon.
17:19You're supposed to be a point guard.
17:21He's a bad teammate.
17:22Hey, hey.
17:24We just want to make sure that you're aware.
17:26That's it?
17:26I thought it was, though.
17:28Okay, I'm glad to hear that.
17:30Austin Reeves right in the game and showing off the bag work for a bucket.
17:33Say hi.
17:34Go ahead.
17:35Say hi.
17:36You're on TV now, so this is what I'm talking about.
17:38This is the time that you're unfortunately going to get.
17:40We're going to spit these little Twizzlers that she has for me right here.
17:42Those are red vines.
17:43Red vines.
17:45No Luca.
17:46No Luca tonight.
17:47Okay, so I'm giving up the scouting report.
17:49Yeah, I'm giving her the full report.
17:50Good injury report there, Austin.
17:51How about Reeves right off the bench?
17:57That's not even an easy two to get.
17:58Usually you want a layup or an over three, a feel-good shot.
18:01He does an ISO with two three counters fade away.
18:04Oh, and Austin, think about who's guarding.
18:06I mean, Doerr was right there for that.
18:08It was really good defense, but just a lead offense.
18:10He's got such an underrated handle.
18:12I mean, look how he has that ball in the string.
18:14Luke Kennard is in the game for L.A., but DeAndre Ayton is going to work inside.
18:18And that was a great pass by Marcus Smart, rewarding the big man.
18:21DeAndre Ayton get in position right there.
18:23You see him if he's that low, throw it to him.
18:25Good hook, good patience by Ayton.
18:28J. Will, Jalen Williams in the game.
18:30Out there with J. Dub.
18:33Kaysen Wallace.
18:34Isaiah Joe is on the floor as well for Oklahoma City.
18:36Williams with seven to shoot.
18:38Good control close out there.
18:39Dub on the drive.
18:40Dub can't finish.
18:41The follow goes from Wallace.
18:43Well, I love the initial drive there.
18:45Jalen Williams with the matchup with Ayton.
18:47He goes right at him, gets to the rim, and then Kaysen Wallace.
18:49That's an effort play that he makes at the basket on the offensive board.
18:53Nice catch by Hachimura on the corner.
18:55Man, do you see how they rotate, Robbie?
18:56I mean, that was a broken down play.
18:58And a swipe.
19:00It's Williams on the finish.
19:03That's one way to get going.
19:04A chance for three as J. Dub takes flight.
19:08That's how you create offense.
19:09Well, the turnovers were such an issue back in the game in November,
19:14and it's been a bit of an issue here for the Lakers in this first quarter.
19:19The rotations by Oklahoma City have been so crisp,
19:22but then the active hands, Jalen Williams gets that steal,
19:25and his first basket back being healthy here, that's a loud one.
19:31He had missed the last ten.
19:34Coming into this one, remember, he missed the first 19 games of the season,
19:39recovering from the off-season wrist surgery.
19:41The last ten was the hamstring.
19:44And his first bucket after missing five to start,
19:47as Robbie said, was certainly loud.
19:50Oklahoma City, they think.
19:51Oh, the lob and slam.
19:53Getting ready for the dunk contest on Saturday.
19:56Springy from Jackson Hayes.
19:584-14 to play.
20:04We take a look at the live spread by DraftKings.
20:09Continue to make your waves.
20:11DraftKings has you covered.
20:13Go to DraftKings for more.
20:15Four contestants for the dunk contest on Saturday night.
20:22Keyshot Johnson of the Miami Heat, Carter Bryan of the Spurs,
20:24Jace Richardson of the Magic,
20:25and here is Jackson Hayes giving us a preview of what we're going to see on Saturday.
20:30Got up, got up, and he put it down.
20:35Austin said he's ready to go.
20:37Showcasing it.
20:38Austin, how do you feel about the seven-footers in the dunk contest?
20:42It's tough just because in the air it doesn't look as dynamic,
20:45so a lot of times their cool dunks don't look as cool.
20:48There's something to somebody smaller getting up that high in the air.
20:51Isaiah Joe with a moon ball.
20:53It's tough.
20:53But, I mean, what about Dwight Howard?
20:55Again, because of his length, he had to go up higher.
20:58You know what I mean?
20:59Remember he did the dunks where he was jumping on the 13-foot goal or 12-foot goal,
21:02and then he did the Superman where he could jump as high,
21:04kind of showing off the length of how high he could touch on the glass.
21:08I think those are the ways that Big can kind of be unique.
21:10Oh, the champ God.
21:12Kinnard sticks it.
21:14There you go.
21:15That's what the league leader three-point percentage looks like right there.
21:18Knocked down three.
21:19And off the dribble this time, a little cross.
21:21Boy, Jalen Williams switched that out, got a good contest,
21:24and it's just a really impressive shot there from Luke Kinnard.
21:27Talked to him before the game a little bit.
21:28He said, I am so excited to be here, man.
21:30I don't think I'll ever be this open in my life when Luke gets back.
21:34I mean, think about it.
21:34Look at all the gravity.
21:35Reeves, Luka.
21:39Uh-oh.
21:39Hold on, guys.
21:40A little extra sauce.
21:41And a chance for three.
21:43Austin Reeves.
21:45Man, oh, man.
21:46He's just out here saucing him up.
21:47See Kinnard, a little pullback.
21:57And then Reeves just may have this dance.
22:00Something that's very underrated in his game is the way I thought of know when to go up in that shot.
22:05He feels that hand get into that little cookie jar, and he's going up right away to kind of force that three-point play.
22:13Well, the fact that he missed 19 games in his second game back has 35 against Philly, right?
22:18Like, it just hasn't taken him much time to get comfortable.
22:21And it doesn't take Isaiah Joe much time to get comfortable either.
22:24A guy that's had plenty of success with some of the starters out.
22:28Did it in the first unit.
22:29Now goes back to the bench, and he's doing it tonight in L.A.
22:32He has shot over 40% from three every season with the Thunder.
22:36And Reeves again draws some contact.
22:37It's going to be on the floor against Wallace.
22:40Reeves thought he was in his shooting motion.
22:43Instead, it'll be side out.
22:44Definitely looked like he got to his chest before he was on his way up.
22:532010, that's three free throws.
22:56With the evolution of the game and these guys knowing how to get fouled, they had to take all that away.
23:01Remember the Durant sweep-throw?
23:02Oh, yeah, the sweep-throw.
23:03Durant made that famous, but I'll tell you who was good at it.
23:06Brooke Lopez.
23:07Deceptive sweep.
23:08That's actually a great call, Noah.
23:10Oh, Bando with a three.
23:12Okay.
23:12Couldn't hit it.
23:13Long rebound goes to Wallace.
23:15No number, slows it down.
23:17No, I think you could throw Kevin Martin.
23:19Oh, definitely.
23:20Two guys that were so good at getting fouled on jumpers.
23:23I hated guarding him.
23:24Yeah.
23:25He used to get me in foul trouble in like two minutes.
23:27Yeah, he'd get everybody.
23:30Good shot out there, Robbie.
23:32Hendricks Williams drove the contact, and he'll get two free throws.
23:34He's part of the loss files.
23:36Kevin Martin.
23:37You know, you just don't talk about some of these guys.
23:40Before that social media era, these names get lost.
23:42He was a big-time player, 20-point-per-game type, you know.
23:45But it's funny because you see some of those guys now start to make waves again on social media.
23:49Like, Michael Redd got super popular out of nowhere, it felt like, on Instagram and Twitter.
23:53Monte Ellis feels like the next guy up.
23:55Monte Ellis, another bucket.
23:57So, Williams at the free throw line.
24:01We'll take a look at the upcoming national TV schedule, NBA TV tomorrow night.
24:05The Clippers are in Houston to take on the Rockets, then the Spurs and the Lakers right here in L.A.
24:11ESPN on Wednesday.
24:13Knicks, Sixers at 730 Eastern.
24:15Spurs at Warriors to follow at 10.
24:18For more on these games, please go to nba.com or visit the NBA app.
24:23So, Ron James back on the floor with Kennard, Reeves, Hayes, and Vanderbilt.
24:28Kenridge Williams.
24:31Empty handed trick.
24:32Former Laker, Alex Caruso out there for the Thunder with Wiggins, Williams, Joe, and Jalen Williams.
24:41Down the middle of Reeves, right to the rack.
24:43Man, explosive two there.
24:45As soon as he got by, able to just excel.
24:48Get up to the rim for a quick leg.
24:49Caruso's athletic, too.
24:50Boy, and J.J. Rennick showing off just how they can use Kennard, right?
24:54Just slip him out because you're so worried about his shooting gravity.
24:57You get Reeves downhill.
24:59Hey, Joe's got something going, though.
25:00Yes, he does.
25:02He is a flamethrower.
25:03These lights will do something to a player.
25:05Reeves for three in just five minutes, all of them from downtown.
25:08This is now his 19th game of the season with three threes or more.
25:13Really shoots that rock.
25:14Knocked away another turnover.
25:16It's Joe.
25:17Thought about the heat check.
25:18Now he'll relocate.
25:20And Adam Early is too late.
25:22Shooter on shooter.
25:23Kennard recognized it.
25:2513 to shoot.
25:26They're going to put Jackson Hayes in the mix here.
25:29And it's Caruso on the pole at hand.
25:32Well, it was going to either be whether it was Isaiah Joe in the pick and pop or Caruso making something happen.
25:37You could just feel they were going right at Jackson Hayes.
25:40And you can live with that, you know.
25:43A contested fadeaway, too.
25:44He doesn't shoot a lot of middies as is.
25:47Lakers catch a break there as Thunder had an easy turnover fall out of their hands.
25:51Austin Reeves showing a little something on his way to the basket.
25:57When Isaiah Joe has come out here firing off the bench, he has been active and looking for his shots.
26:03And what a start to his ball game he's had.
26:06And our skate drive shovel Hayes on the adjustment.
26:12Couldn't finish it.
26:13Vanderbilt nearly took it away.
26:14Oklahoma City has a two-for-one here.
26:19Caruso at the controls.
26:22That's a great drive dished by Kennard.
26:24Got to finish that.
26:27Caruso right at Kennard for two.
26:29And that's the one area where Kennard does lack.
26:32They're going to attack him on defense.
26:34It's a 7-0 Oklahoma City run.
26:39Looks like a delay of game was called against the Thunder after the fact.
26:42But they do get the two-for-one with just about ten seconds separating shot clock and game clock.
26:54Turnovers starting to pile up for the Lakers.
26:56They're up to four in this opening quarter.
26:58James off the Kennard screen.
27:00Looks to turn the corner.
27:01Bully ball right through.
27:02Kick it.
27:03Vanderbilt.
27:03All alone for a reason.
27:05Great.
27:06And a tip in by Jackson Hayes.
27:11That's a great, smart, heads-up non-rotation there by Caruso.
27:15He had to decide between Kennard and Vando.
27:17Let's Vando get a wide open three.
27:18And then a backcourt violation on the good double up at halfcourt.
27:25It's just what Vando does there.
27:26He just plays hard.
27:27You see Jackson Hayes keeping it alive on the glass.
27:31That's a Dennis Rodman there.
27:32Battle off the glass and keep it alive.
27:36James in for Hayes.
27:37Five seconds left.
27:38It's going to be Reeves with three seconds.
27:40Weaves through.
27:41Reeves to the rim!
27:42Witness!
27:43Austin Reeves!
27:44Ends the first quarter with a bang!
27:49Oh my gosh.
27:50Reeves has rocked the rim again.
27:54And the Lakers are back within one.
27:56Yeah, Reeves out here cooking, man.
27:58Look at this.
27:58Slice in the pick and roll.
27:59Getting up to the basket.
28:00He's not showing any rust right now.
28:04I can promise you that.
28:07There is no answer for Austin Reeves.
28:10Nine points, three assists, 12 lead changes in the first quarter.
28:15It's a one-point Oklahoma City lead after one.
28:18Coach, you guys were active, forcing turnovers once again in that first quarter.
28:25What did you like about the way your defense played?
28:27Pretty good activity.
28:28We gave up some stuff at the rim, including that last play, that we got to clean up.
28:31But I thought we were active and competing.
28:33Isaiah Joe, so much instant offense off the bench right there.
28:36How does he bring a spark for this group every time out?
28:39He's been in a really good groove lately, but he's got a great floor game.
28:42So even when he's not making them like that, he really helps us.
28:44Thanks, Coach.
28:45Good luck the rest of the way.
28:45Appreciate it.
28:46All right, Rob.
28:47Well, both leading scorers for both teams off the bench.
28:49Isaiah Joe, a perfect three for three.
28:51And he has looked sharp so far, all of them from downtown.
28:55When he makes that first one, it just feels like that rim grows exponentially.
28:59Austin Reeves leads the way for the Lakers.
29:02He's got nine points.
29:03He's four for four.
29:04So both off the bench are combined seven for seven.
29:07And Isaiah Joe will start the second quarter.
29:10Holmgren will be back out there along with Alex Caruso, Isaiah Hardenstein,
29:14and the newest addition for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Jared McCain,
29:18who was acquired from Philadelphia at the trade deadline.
29:20A big move from Sam Presti, who doesn't necessarily give up a ton of draft capital,
29:26but they give up one of their first-round picks for this coming draft
29:28to get a young, potential budding star in Jared McCain,
29:34and somebody they believe will fit in seamlessly with Oklahoma City.
29:37Well, I'm really intrigued, Noah, because Jared McCain is starting to shoot the basketball so much better.
29:42You know, you think about the knee injury last year, the thumb injury in the preseason,
29:45but he's 16 of his last 29 from three.
29:48And right there, right on cue, the quarter break, he is looking for his own offense early on.
29:54Just moving much more like he did during his rookie year,
29:58where he was awesome before that torn meniscus forced him to the sideline the rest of the way.
30:03Marcus Smart back out there.
30:04Maxi Cleves played well at late for the Lakers.
30:06Kennard, James, and Vanderbilt round out the five.
30:09Five to shoot now for LeBron.
30:11Trying to back down on Caruso.
30:12James, failure, and filling up.
30:14How about the ball fake there, Austin?
30:17Yeah, to get McCain off.
30:18Just to get him a little bit of a look.
30:20That's a tough matchup for McGaughan.
30:22Even on Marcus Smart, he has a size advantage.
30:25McCain, two for two.
30:27Okay, there he goes.
30:28I'm telling you, though, guys, he was starting to find the rhythm in Philadelphia.
30:33Certainly with the opportunity, SGA out,
30:36Jared McCain is going to have chances to make his mark quickly here.
30:42He comes right off the bench now.
30:44He and Isaiah Joe both perfect at the nine-five for five.
30:47You know Marcus is going there.
30:48And he gets it to go.
30:50Oh, and LaFoulle.
30:51That's exactly what he's going to do with that size advantage on McCain.
30:57That little ball fake.
30:58That's like what you see guys do down at the Y.
31:02Jared McCain coming off,
31:04and what a start to his ball game out here in Los Angeles.
31:09Smart is having a size advantage.
31:11He's one of those, I'd say, last of a dying breed,
31:14just in terms of guards knowing how to play for the post.
31:17Remember in Boston, he did that heavily.
31:20Got a couple looks here, especially with the size advantage of McCain.
31:25Mark Dignall told us he was going to go 11 deep today,
31:28and he has already, with McCain being the 11th guy to play for the Thunder.
31:32It's quite the luxury, huh?
31:33A little bit, considering they don't have Shea Gilgis-Alexander or A.J. Mitchell in this game.
31:38It's still hopeful that what would be a second-year player, technically a rookie,
31:44and Nikola Kopich will at some point make his return.
31:47He is back with the G League team, playing with the Oklahoma City Blue tonight.
31:50That was after a cancer diagnosis before the season.
31:54Took him out for this entire season so far.
31:56Three rounds of chemo.
31:57He is back on the court and competing at the highest level as Vanderbilt Cody moves one in.
32:02That is just an amazing story.
32:04What a story.
32:04Back out there.
32:05Absolutely, man.
32:06And just to see how much he's been through,
32:08it's truly remarkable that he's back and playing.
32:12He tore his ACL before his draft, so he missed all of last year in what would have been his rookie year.
32:16He returned for Summer League, and then after the diagnosis,
32:20what Mark Dignall said is his teammates have made him feel everything is normal,
32:24and the character of Nikola Kopich, when he went to Mark Dignall, he said,
32:28I just don't want this to be a distraction for the team.
32:31I don't want it to be a downer for the team.
32:33Always thinking about the team first.
32:35Just exceptional humility.
32:36Driving kick, Caruso three, and the rebound, Hartenstein has fouled hard.
32:42That's just a – Robbie, talk about that.
32:45I mean, he catches the ball high and knew that he could get a foul there.
32:49Just a heads-up play.
32:50Hartenstein has – I don't want to say the mind of a guard, but he's very, very sharp, you know, for a big.
32:56Some of these guys are more programmed just to pick and roll and do, you know, the dirty work.
33:01He knows how to pass and play.
33:02He does.
33:02You kind of called it.
33:03You would know it before the game, talking about his dream on like field.
33:06Oh, it's just like what he does well, you know, whether it's the short roll, it's the passing.
33:12Certainly on the offensive glass, he's become so effective with that lefty floater.
33:17But then he protects the rim.
33:19He guards some of the better centers in the NBA at a high level.
33:22His rim protection, even though he has block shots, he guards at the basket.
33:26He's just a really good center for this group.
33:28And their rebounding numbers when he's not on the floor are way different than when he's on it.
33:34Oklahoma City, though, just one for five from the free-throw line so far as Vanderbilt stepped on the sideline, turns it over.
33:40Those are the worst turnovers, man.
33:42LeBron James sees the floor better than anybody.
33:49He's been doing this for 23 years.
33:51He can score not only for himself, but he just reads the floor.
33:53Plays chess, not checkers.
33:56He reads the defense.
33:58Always finds the open man.
34:00What a luxury for Canard to get traded for this team, especially when Luka gets back.
34:03How many open shots is this guy going to get?
34:05When that last pass that we saw in that little package there, he read that double team perfectly.
34:10They were coming over.
34:11It was a great cut by Vanderbilt, but LeBron just drops a dime.
34:16Isaiah Joe's first miss falls off, and it's batted out of bounds.
34:20It's going to stay here.
34:22And Vandos everywhere.
34:28Take another look.
34:30That's what I call Vanderbilt.
34:32And hit off his left hand.
34:34Well, he got that pregame interview with you, Austin, then fired him up out here tonight.
34:38I gave him credit.
34:39Had some good talks, man.
34:40I even had a good talk with Scott Brooks before the game.
34:43Oh, nice.
34:44He's catching up.
34:44He said, that team we had in D.C. was wild, wasn't it?
34:48Immediately just my home guard went down.
34:51There you go.
34:51Oh, the backdoor cut from Isaiah Joe and the finish.
34:54Scott Brooks now in his second year under J.J. Redick on his staff.
34:59Long-time NBA head coach himself in O.J.C. in Washington.
35:03And LeBron James has mastered that fadeaway.
35:06Beautiful little fadeaway.
35:07Drips him towards his right.
35:11McCain got the respect of the defense now.
35:15He's going to rise up in that middle, though.
35:16Yeah.
35:16That's his shot right there.
35:17He gets the roll.
35:18But it's just that stop and start, though, right?
35:20Like, it's the hang dribble and then just an explosion there to the lane.
35:24Just throws the timing off the defender.
35:26And this is where they're going to go right back at him, man.
35:28Especially with Smart.
35:30And McCain throws for the miss.
35:31And really, Mark is Smart there.
35:33He hooked McCain, but he did it with his elbow.
35:35So you're never going to see that get called.
35:37You do that with your arm, it's getting called.
35:39Another backdoor.
35:41Isaiah Joe can soar.
35:43Okay, Isaiah Joe, I mean, listen, that takes a lot of goal.
35:47You go backdoor and you see LeBron approaching.
35:50Way to get up.
35:51But the two things that he does at such a high level,
35:54it's the three-point shot and it's being an active cutter.
35:56He showcased that here tonight.
35:58Going to move without the ball.
36:01McCain out in the open.
36:03He'll let one fire.
36:05One rebound, Smart.
36:06Good day.
36:08Skip it.
36:09McCain, Hardenstein, open man.
36:12It's Caruso, cash.
36:14Caruso's like, let me get in on the fun.
36:17Boy, OKC is moving that rock right here.
36:21It's the back cut first.
36:23You've got Isaiah Joe so active.
36:25They don't want him coming off the handoff.
36:27They're afraid of the three.
36:28Burn it to the rim.
36:30And you get it right back at you.
36:31This time it's Maxi Kleba getting it.
36:34And Alex Caruso getting in on all the fun right here.
36:37Late on the rotation.
36:39Just like that, OKC is cashing out from three.
36:42Seven points in the first quarter and a half.
36:5112 points off turnovers.
36:52Nine second chance points as well.
36:54It's been thunder basketball so far, including this last 7-0 run, to open up the seven-point cushion.
37:00Well, it's something to watch for, too.
37:01Oklahoma City had a really healthy discussion about mid-range jumpers by some of these role players for the Lakers.
37:07Marcus Smart post-ups.
37:09They're not going to overreact to him doing that a couple times.
37:11What a pass and finish.
37:13Caruso finds homegrown.
37:14But these turnovers.
37:16Yeah, they've just killed the Lakers, though.
37:18And it happened in the first meeting.
37:19It's happening once again.
37:21OKC going a little zone action here.
37:23Out of the corner.
37:24James can't hit.
37:26Rebounded Joe.
37:27And they're looking to run again.
37:28They're just out to the races.
37:30Right now, it's not a set offense.
37:32They're just driving and kicking, finding the open man.
37:35And Holmgren gets bumped on the outside by LaRavia.
37:37Well, also, think about this here.
37:39When you're talking about Oklahoma City, these bench and role players have been absolutely hooping these last five games.
37:46Now is Caruso just looking off the defense.
37:49He knows Chet Holmgren's running the floor, but he keeps that defense at bay.
37:53You're worried about the threes.
37:55But he's dropping it off for a shot right there at the basket.
37:59But guys like Isaiah Joe and, you know, Kenridge Williams had some big games.
38:03Certainly Aaron Wiggins.
38:04It's like these guys have played in a real rhythm, and now it's showing here for their second unit.
38:09Well, the Lakers finally forced a turnover.
38:11They get it right back.
38:12And Isaiah Joe knocks one down.
38:14He makes them pay for the mistake.
38:16He's got a rhythm going tonight, man.
38:19Let me tell you.
38:21He's got 16 points and 12 minutes off the bench.
38:25He is 6 for 7 from the floor.
38:28Off the heel from Reams.
38:29Collected by Williams.
38:30Right now, it's essential for the Lakers.
38:32These next couple possessions, they've got to get some good offense in and execute.
38:35There you go.
38:35Maybe force a turnover, see if they get a good look here.
38:38Smart will rise.
38:40Yes, that's a ton of offense.
38:40Yeah, I mean, you can always get that right there, Austin.
38:45Home grid.
38:46With a purpose to the rack.
38:48And just off of this shot, nobody stops the basketball for L.A.
38:52It's a 14-0 Oklahoma City run.
38:57When you save the basketball towards your end, you are asking for trouble.
39:02Isaiah Joe, the right man to catch that one.
39:05He has been unconscious here in this first half.
39:07And you don't stop the ball.
39:08Chet Holmgren's out here hanging on rims.
39:13Thretched out on the Thunder bench.
39:17Yeah.
39:1914-point Oklahoma City lead.
39:22Marcus Smart finally puts an end to the 14-0 run.
39:25And he's got a chance for a three-point play.
39:28It's another one.
39:28He's one of those guys.
39:30Crafty as well.
39:31Knows how to get the foul call.
39:32You see, right there, as soon as he gets that contact, he picks up the ball, anticipating.
39:36McCain's trying to cut him off.
39:37Uses that momentum against him.
39:40That's what Crafty scorers do.
39:41It's not just about the bag work.
39:43Easiest basketball is a free throw.
39:46Well, also, Austin, you think about when the ball swings, whether it's man-to-man or zone defense,
39:50and that defense is shifting over.
39:52That seam, it's such a great time to drive that closeout.
39:56It puts so much pressure on the defense.
39:57100%, Robbie.
39:58It's one of the biggest skills you could have in the NBA today as a guard.
40:01It's not the bag work or a double crossover.
40:04It's straight line drives.
40:07Lakers had to hit five in a row before that make from Smart.
40:09Now, McCain goes up and under.
40:11He just can't push it through.
40:13Good move, though.
40:14He looks good, though.
40:14I'm just saying, Robbie, just like the way he's moving out there and how aggressive he is.
40:19Hachimura can't stick to three.
40:22Thunder, we're fortunate there.
40:23Just not get back and not get the Rui Hachimura.
40:25He's a very good three-point shooter.
40:28He is, and he's one of the few that can shoot that well with a flat jump shot.
40:32Like him, Kawhi Leonard.
40:34There's some guys that just naturally have flat jump shots, but he makes it work.
40:37Caruso on the drive.
40:41And finish.
40:42Good bump.
40:43But I also, I love the slip by Chet because that defender, he just relaxes for a second,
40:48and then you're just driving it right down that seam.
40:51Slips are so difficult to guard on the ball.
40:54And what you're seeing is the difference in each two teams in terms of depth.
41:00Oh, my God.
41:00Freeze.
41:02You cannot contain this guy.
41:04Eight-foot shot.
41:05Oh, doesn't go.
41:06Great contest by McCain, though.
41:07Follows the miss, and he puts it home.
41:11Hoop and harm for DeAndre Ayton.
41:13That was dominating.
41:14That it was.
41:15Well, here's that slip.
41:18Look at the way that Holmgren's getting out, and it just creates a moment of indecision.
41:22Are you staying?
41:23Are you switching?
41:24It's tough to guard.
41:25And then, Austin, this is going to be a prop for Oklahoma City.
41:28The not-Hartenstein minutes.
41:30Absolutely.
41:31This is where he's got to play himself into the game, dominate the paint.
41:35He's the largest guy on the floor.
41:37He's got the size advantage.
41:39This is one of the areas that they can maybe make a dent.
41:44Well, it's not like the Lakers are this great offensive rebounding team,
41:47but Oklahoma City is very middle of the road in terms of being on the defensive glass.
41:53OKC on the season.
41:55It's 24th in the NBA's second chance points per game.
41:58On the bounce inside.
41:59And Lou Dort on the second adjustment is going to get two free throws.
42:03That's just a great pass from Chet Holmgren.
42:05Draw that second defender, put pressure on the rim, and get into the paint.
42:09Just drop it off right there for Lou Dort.
42:12These teams are a combined three for nine from the free throw line.
42:16Tomorrow on primetime in Milan, Ilya Malinan skates in the short program,
42:22and Michaela Schifrin and Breezy Johnson team up in the team combined event.
42:26Tomorrow on NBC and Peacock.
42:29The quad god, as they call him, legend.
42:33The quad god.
42:37Yes, that's correct.
42:39Four spins in the air.
42:40That's different levels.
42:42That's breaking it down right there.
42:43Are you a Blazing Glory fan?
42:45I am, yeah.
42:46I felt like you came with some knowledge.
42:47Yeah.
42:48If Will Ferrell was sitting next to you.
42:49Then we could break it down.
42:51Him, I, and John Hedder.
42:53We could all talk about it.
42:54No doubt.
42:54And the free throw struggles continue from both teams.
43:00You know, I just got the shaft with the wrong actor.
43:02That was the problem.
43:03I'm still not over it, obviously, with you being back in the building.
43:07Yeah, clearly.
43:08No, some PTSD is coming back to the surface.
43:10On the bounce.
43:13What a pass.
43:14And Hayes will get two on the other side.
43:19Well, Austin Reeves taking his time, walking back to the other end.
43:24We're going to look at the pass here.
43:26That was a tight window.
43:27Man with the left.
43:28He had to make that low.
43:30Great hands by Hayes grabbing it low and then immediately going high.
43:35Big mistake bigs do is they keep it low and get that ball stripped.
43:38Lake-to-lake contact with Luke Dort and Austin Reeves.
43:42That's what got him limping just a tad.
43:45Here's what's coming up on American Express at the half.
43:48I'll be joined by Brian Scalabrini and Derek Fisher.
43:51We've got the big crew today.
43:52That's right.
43:53Well, literally only Scal.
43:56Derek and I, you know.
43:57I'd say we're more on the first week.
43:58Derek played big.
43:59He did.
44:00He played much bigger than he was.
44:01We're going to break down this one.
44:04There have also, guys, there have been some big fights in the NBA tonight.
44:06Not just one.
44:07I don't know if you know, but there's been a second one.
44:09Where's the second one?
44:10Robbie, you got any scuffles in the NBA?
44:12Second one.
44:13I was not taking that fight.
44:14If you want to know where the second one was, tune in.
44:17American Express at the half.
44:18Let's order that.
44:19On the spin, shovel, Wiggins, kick.
44:22It's a three for Williams.
44:23Man, they moved the ball so well, though.
44:25For a team that has so many weapons, all of them play good to great offense.
44:30Euro Hayes.
44:31He's just going the other way.
44:34He's waiting for him at the basket.
44:37Jalen Williams is one of the best bigs at taking charges in the NBA.
44:42That's clear.
44:42He's just one of those guys that he does so much for this group on both ends.
44:47You mentioned the charge-taking, but certainly the way he can play five out on offense, a capable three-point shooter, and a guy that can really distribute.
44:55But you're right, Noah.
44:56He is phenomenal at taking those charges.
44:58And look at that dime right there.
45:00It's Vanderbilt called for the foul on the back cut by Williams.
45:03Those face cuts, they call that the Paul Pierce cut.
45:07Yeah.
45:07Pierce was a monster with that.
45:10Man, it just...
45:11Zips him right there.
45:14Look at the way he's just threading that right through Jackson Hayes' little pocket.
45:20Yeah, Paul Pierce is just fly right across that paint.
45:23Once you're on his back, man, you're at his mercy.
45:25He's just to go either way, shoot over either shoulder.
45:29Austin, they also used to hit the left elbow, and then he would just dump truck you as a defender and just post him.
45:37And it was so hard to deal with because of his size and physicality.
45:41Jalen Williams kind of has that.
45:43I'm not comparing him to Paul, but he has that size.
45:48Man, Reeves has crossed like seven people today.
45:51Left him behind his head.
45:53Vanderbilt goes to get it, and it's Kanawha.
45:55Missed the three.
45:57Not kind of bounced by Vanderbilt.
45:59Nope.
45:59They're staying here.
46:00I thought it was off Vanderbilt too, Noah.
46:02Good activity by Vando.
46:03This is the value he adds.
46:05This is an extra possession here, so he might not score here in this possession, but he created this offense.
46:11Reeves to get it in.
46:12There it is.
46:13And it's Hotchimura at the rim.
46:16I've always felt like on those under-out-of-bounds plays, if you set a great back screen, you are going to put so much pressure, even on great defensive units.
46:24And that's exactly what the Lakers did right there.
46:27Williams left it by.
46:28Nope.
46:29Make a little run here.
46:30Close out this half.
46:32Back within nine.
46:34Vanderbilt hits the deck.
46:35Wanted a foul.
46:36Instead, it's Reeves.
46:37Count it!
46:38A three.
46:38That's a tough shot.
46:41Time out, OKC.
46:43Woo!
46:45You see this.
46:47NRJ back straight games with a cap injury.
46:50He has come back and looked even stronger than before.
46:5411 minutes off the bench.
46:55Five of six on the floor.
46:5712 points.
46:58Five assists.
46:59And he has diced defenders left and right so far in the first half.
47:05Just a natural score.
47:07Just continues to develop his game each year.
47:09Seems like he just comes back with something different in his bag.
47:13And again, they're going to need a lot of it, especially with this other guy out, Luka Duncan, if they're going to win this game tonight.
47:20Isaiah Joe with the most bench points by an Oklahoma City player in the first half because you're 16 already coming off the bench.
47:27Under three to play in the second quarter.
47:29And that's probably just due to the wide variety and balanced attack.
47:32They usually don't need a guy to have 16 off the bench.
47:35They usually all have like seven, eight, and just collectively score.
47:38Close out by Kennard.
47:39Back down by Holmgren.
47:40This great defense got a way to travel there.
47:42Nord lost it.
47:43Kennard swiped it.
47:45James.
47:46Great trainer.
47:46A locomotive!
47:47LeBron James!
47:51The big finish!
47:54Little throwback right there.
47:55No question.
47:58Push shot by Wallace to cry at the crowd.
48:01One of those momentum killers.
48:03Even at LeBron's age here, the fact that he's still leading the NBA in fast break points per game, that play tells you why.
48:09He is still a free train in the open.
48:12Couldn't get it to go on the left.
48:14Hayes fighting hard, and it's going the other way.
48:16And LeBron can't believe it.
48:18Are they going to reverse this call?
48:19Looks like Josh Tivin might come in and do so, but here's another look.
48:22Look at this.
48:23Freight train number 23.
48:25Chet made a business decision right there, folks.
48:27He thought about it.
48:29Yeah, had the angle, but not the intention.
48:31Yeah, he thought about it.
48:31He said, ah, might as well check out.
48:33I mean, you're talking about the guy that's third in the NBA at blocked shots.
48:38They did reverse the call.
48:40It is Laker basketball, fresh 14 now.
48:42I don't know if LeBron's going to get that one.
48:43It is looking from, like, a vertical standpoint.
48:45He's high enough.
48:46Menard.
48:47Friendly bounce.
48:48He's going to be a good little piece here.
48:53He's going to give them something, especially off the bench,
48:55when they need that offense.
48:57Williams thought he would foul.
48:58He keeps driving to try to get fouled instead of just driving to score.
49:03If you get fouled, you get fouled.
49:05Look how crafty the students.
49:07Reeves just couldn't get the high one to go.
49:10And Chet Holmgren came over and totally altered that shot.
49:13Now, remember, Oklahoma City two days ago was up 15 late in the second quarter
49:17against Houston.
49:18It went into that half, only up a couple of possessions.
49:21Feels like the Lakers have found that similar type of spark.
49:24As Dork drills a big three.
49:26Well, if Chet Holmgren does not hold off Austin Reeves there,
49:29that's a steal going the other way.
49:31That was a really smart and physical play by Holmgren,
49:35and it leads to the open shot for Lou Dork.
49:37And Wallace is pounding this.
49:39That's what he does.
49:40Leads the NBA in steals.
49:41He's got another one here.
49:42Find the trailer.
49:43Dork sets up.
49:44Now, hold drive.
49:46Oh, perfect pass inside.
49:48And Wallace does the rest.
49:49Initially, L.A. able to get back
49:51and stop that initial surge in transition,
49:54but they lose track of Cason Wallace at the rim.
50:00Oklahoma City has found just the right response.
50:05He is so close to the midline there,
50:08but the pressure that Cason Wallace can put on the basketball,
50:11the way that he can move his feet,
50:12he is a terrific defensive player.
50:1520-8.
50:16Love and slam!
50:18Austin Reeves just dropped it in the bucket,
50:22and Hayes went to the skies to get it.
50:24It's a beautiful pass.
50:25Unbelievable pass, Austin.
50:27The ground on the bunny.
50:28Just skipped that.
50:29That's almost from half court.
50:31Two for one for OKC.
50:34Williams driving on Kinnard.
50:37On the pump.
50:38Got the contact,
50:39and he'll get two free throws.
50:40They're hunting that matchup.
50:42You could see they are trying to get Luke Kinnard up there,
50:45but this alley-oop, Boston, is ridiculous.
50:47Yeah, just a quick throw,
50:49and what a luxury when you've got a guy like that.
50:50That's why he's in the dunk contest.
50:52He can go way up above the rim.
50:54That was even above Chet.
50:57Bringing some energy here in crypto.
51:00This has turned into a high-level back-and-forth first half,
51:04playing without Luka Doncic and Shea Gilchis-Alexander,
51:07top two scorers in the NBA,
51:09and yet, with all the star power both of these teams possess,
51:12you can feel that they want some momentum.
51:14Certainly, the Lakers want to continue this momentum,
51:17three-game winning streak.
51:18The Thunder want to get back in the win column
51:20and avoid a three-game losing streak
51:22as we head towards the All-Star break.
51:29Good job pressuring him, kind of deterring.
51:31I don't think they had enough time for a two-for-one anyways, but...
51:35They are into that basketball right here.
51:37Literally, they pick up, man.
51:38They guard, all of them.
51:39Look at Dork.
51:41Six to shoot now for James.
51:42On the bounce, it's Kennard had a block.
51:44Got it back, and Kennard puts it through.
51:48But Austin, he kept that high.
51:49Lou Kennard, he was not going to be denied there.
51:52Way to stick with that play.
51:53Absolutely.
51:54Seven points off the bench for Kennard.
51:56Three seconds to work with Williams.
51:58Off the window, and it drops with .3 on the clock.
52:01There you go.
52:03Kennard lets it fly, and it's well short.
52:05Looks like it might have been late anyway.
52:08Jalen Williams finding a little bit of a rhythm in his return to action
52:11towards the end of the first half,
52:13and Oklahoma City with 32 points coming off the bench.
52:17Leads by nine going into the break.
52:20Impressive back and forth.
52:22First two quarters here in L.A.
52:24as the Thunder hold the advantage at the half.
52:27You're watching Peacock NBA Monday, presented by Xfinity.
52:31The pier as we get set for the second half.
52:34Time for A Game You Can Trust, presented by American Express.
52:39So we're here in Los Angeles tonight.
52:40We're going to be here all week because All-Star Weekend is upon us.
52:44It starts Friday, February 13th, with the Castro Rising Stars Challenge
52:48at 9 p.m. Eastern, followed by the HBCU Classic, presented by AT&T at 11.
52:53And then Saturday, we've got NBA Showtime to get us kicked off at 4.30 Eastern.
52:58All of the festivities from Intuit Dome and NBA All-Star Saturday night
53:02begins with the State Farm Three-Point Contest, the Kia Shooting Stars,
53:06and rounded out with the AT&T Slam Dunk.
53:08And then Sunday, 4.30 Eastern, the guys will get you rolling on NBA Showtime.
53:12And it all leads to 5 o'clock in the 75th All-Star Game, USA vs. World format.
53:21Exciting times in Los Angeles.
53:23Exciting times for a second half.
53:25Brian and Derek will join us when we come back.
53:27Getting set for the final two quarters of the Lakers and the Thunder.
53:30And of American Express.
53:3367 of 58 Oklahoma City ahead of L.A.
53:40after two here from downtown Los Angeles.
53:42We welcome you back to the court side.
53:44Noah Eagle, Brian Scalabrini, Derek Fisher.
53:48Fun first couple of quarters here in L.A.
53:50It's been a fun night around the association.
53:52Wild night.
53:53I don't know.
53:53Yeah, I was going to say maybe fun's not the right word.
53:55But interesting might be the right word.
53:57We mentioned that there's been a couple of fights around the association.
54:00Some objections as well.
54:01So this was earlier today.
54:03By kind of an understatement, right?
54:04This is in Charlotte.
54:05Well, this, what do you want to call this?
54:06A melee?
54:07Melee!
54:08I mean, it's one step below Malice in the Palace.
54:11So this is Moussa Diabate, Jalen Dern, then Miles Bridges gets in.
54:15And if it's Detroit, you know it's coming.
54:18Isaiah Stewart, Beef Stew, he is 100% about that life.
54:22So all four were ejected from this one.
54:24And a great job by everybody of eventually de-escalating what was happening here.
54:28But the two bigs for Detroit, this is the identity of the Pistons.
54:31And Moussa Diabate was hot the rest of the way.
54:33No question.
54:34Hey, is this a hot take?
54:35Really good for the Charlotte Hornets?
54:37Yeah.
54:37Not so good for the Pistons.
54:39Isaiah Stewart's a good player.
54:41He needs to figure out how to stay on the floor.
54:43But for Charlotte, showing that fight, they've been winning some games.
54:46Yeah, very important for the Hornets to short end that fight, Brian.
54:48So, look, we've got Minnesota and Atlanta.
54:51Mo Gay trips up Nas Reed.
54:54And then Nas Reed goes right into Gay's face.
54:56And this one got ugly fast.
54:59Pulling of jerseys.
55:01Getting towards the general face area.
55:05Who's going to separate those guys?
55:07Well, that's the thing.
55:08These two guys are incredibly strong.
55:10The reach is off the charts.
55:11Finally, Julius Randle gets in the middle of it.
55:13But Nas Reed had to be held back by multiple team officials.
55:16Mo Gay just couldn't take his gaze.
55:18There's the former Laker, Gabe Vincent.
55:20Look, it's that time of year.
55:21It feels like this is the dog days of the NBA season, D-Fish.
55:24You think about January, and these teams are all battling for a position.
55:27But we like seeing a little bit of spark.
55:29Yeah, just too much.
55:30A little bit.
55:31I mean, the Charlotte Hornets have been playing really good basketball.
55:34The Detroit Pistons have been the best team in the Eastern Conference throughout the season.
55:37The Hornets wanted to let them know we are here.
55:40We are ready to battle.
55:41Like you said, no surprise, Isaiah Stewart was right in the mix.
55:45And in February, people have their mind on All-Star,
55:48having their mind on where they're going on vacation for All-Star break.
55:51So this type of stuff does happen.
55:53And it's freezing everywhere.
55:55So you think the cold actually impacts seasonal depression?
55:58You're blaming seasonal depression?
55:59I am.
56:00It's cold, man.
56:01In the Northeast, it's cold.
56:03You just don't like these guys.
56:06You're now playing teams for maybe the third time in the season.
56:09And you're just tired of fighting this guy, babbling through screens.
56:13And you've got to let them know sometimes.
56:14Yeah, I'm not an advocate of fighting, but I do think it's good for the Hornets.
56:17Look, it's been a little bit chippy tonight here.
56:20Not necessarily what we saw in those other two games.
56:22But the Lakers and the Thunder getting into it on the court.
56:25The two-point shooting percentage has been off the charts.
56:27But the difference feels like the three-point shooting for Oklahoma City.
56:30And how about both benches so far in this game?
56:32Isaiah Joe really let that fire for the Oklahoma City side.
56:35But Austin Reeves coming off the bench defense for the Lakers, it actually feels like a game-changer for what they have right now.
56:41Yeah, for now, without Luka Doncic in the lineup, it allows them to play LeBron James and have him be a featured guy.
56:48And then to have the gift and the blessing to bring a primary scorer and playmaker off the bench in Austin Reeves,
56:54it's fitting well for the Lakers so far.
56:57Just have to do a better job on the defensive end.
56:59And they've got to stop turning the ball over.
57:01That's like the biggest thing.
57:02They have ten turnovers for 20 points.
57:04They have eight live ball turnovers where that's what Oklahoma City wants to do.
57:08So, I'm surprised.
57:10The Lakers should be down by a lot more.
57:11Only down by nine.
57:12It's the free throw, Scal.
57:14Oklahoma City's five out of 11 from the free throw line.
57:17So, you're talking about plus five, plus six points to your point.
57:21But this was really Austin Reeves.
57:23He's taking his game to a different level this year.
57:25This is almost a different stratosphere.
57:27Yeah, he's a hooper, man.
57:28He reads his back pick and roll at a super high level.
57:30Gets downhill, and he was crossing up Lugan's door.
57:34Yeah, Austin Reeves is crafty, innovative with the basketball.
57:38His ability to get into the paint and put pressure on the rim, off the dribble,
57:42is as good as anybody in the league.
57:44Helping to lead the weight.
57:45That play at the end of the first quarter.
57:47On that alley-oop right there?
57:48No, I'm talking about the one where he crossed over to the dunk.
57:52That was nasty.
57:53Yeah, he's had a couple of those that I've been watching, Robbie and Austin,
57:56both giving a little stank face in their seats.
57:58Saying, okay, he's different today.
58:00He's feeling himself today.
58:02All right, so the Lakers got to find their way back into this one.
58:04Felt like they had their run towards the end of the first half.
58:07We'll see if they can continue it into the third quarter.
58:11Let's check out tonight's live line.
58:13DraftKings is the number one sportsbook for live betting.
58:15To get in on the action, download the app and use promo code DUNK when you sign up.
58:20On this weekend, NBA All-Star 2026 is here in Los Angeles,
58:26Thursday through Sunday, from must-see games to non-stop fan events.
58:30It's all happening now.
58:31Tickets are still available, but going fast, get yours at nbaevents.com slash all-star.
58:3867-58 right across town, downtown Los Angeles is where Crypto.com Arena stands.
58:45And the Los Angeles Lakers, in their home gym, have some ground to make up.
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