Los Angeles Lakers vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction & Picks - NBA

Prediction published on 11/12/25, 5:47 PM  by Erik Gibbs | Modified on 11/13/25 at 12:05 AM in NBA Picks

The Oklahoma City Thunder welcome the Los Angeles Lakers to Paycom Center on Wednesday night in one of the most anticipated matchups of the early NBA season. Both teams have been among the Western Conference's best through the first month, with Oklahoma City off to a blistering 10–1 start and undefeated in their first four home games. The Lakers, meanwhile, are 8–3 overall and an impressive 5–1 on the road, riding the momentum of six wins in their last seven outings.

Oklahoma City has picked up right where it left off after last season's championship run. The Thunder have won 11 of their first 12 games and continue to dominate opponents on both ends of the court. They rank among the league leaders in defensive efficiency and fast-break scoring, thanks to their depth, athleticism, and elite ball movement.

Their most recent performance was a statement win—a 126–102 rout of the Golden State Warriors, powered by a suffocating defense that held Golden State to 34 percent shooting. With confidence high, OKC now faces one of its toughest back-to-back challenges yet, hosting Steph Curry one night and Luka Doncic the next.

The Lakers have been one of the season's most pleasant surprises so far. Even without LeBron James and Gabe Vincent, Los Angeles has managed to stay hot, with Doncic and Austin Reaves leading the way offensively. Doncic, who dropped 38 points in their recent road win at Charlotte, has seamlessly stepped into a leadership role and looks comfortable orchestrating the offense. The team's defensive intensity and improved ball rotation have helped them stay competitive despite their injuries. However, reintegrating LeBron back into the lineup when he returns will be another test for chemistry and rhythm.