The second wave of first-round NBA Playoff games delivered intense action on Tuesday night, with the Los Angeles Lakers, Indiana Pacers, and Oklahoma City Thunder making big statements.
Lakers 94, Timberwolves 85
The Lakers tied their series 1-1 with a gritty win over the Timberwolves, led by Luka Doncic’s 31-point, 12-rebound, 9-assist near triple-double. LeBron James added 21 points, showing the Lakers’ new-look lineup is clicking at the right time following the blockbuster February trade that brought Doncic to L.A.
Pacers 123, Bucks 115
Back home in Indiana, the Pacers pushed their series lead to 2-0 despite the return of Damian Lillard and another strong outing from Giannis Antetokounmpo. Pascal Siakam starred with 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton racked up 21 points and 12 assists to lead the Pacers past the Bucks.
Thunder 118, Grizzlies 99
The Thunder took full control of their series with a 2-0 lead after a dominant performance over the Grizzlies. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 27 points, Jalen Williams added 24, and Chet Holmgren posted a monster stat line: 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 blocks. The Grizzlies rallied in the third but couldn’t keep pace as the Thunder opened the fourth with a crushing 9-0 run. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant combined for 49 points in the loss.
Game 3s are shaping up to be pivotal as teams try to either build on momentum or fight back from the brink.
