Thunder v. Lakers: Key takeaways from pregame conference with Coach Daigneault

As the Oklahoma City Thunder gear up for a two-game set against the Los Angeles Lakers at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Head Coach Mark Daigneault offered a clear look at where his team’s priorities lie. In a press conference ahead of the highly anticipated series, Daigneault touched on everything from playoff prep to player development and key opponents.

Here are three takeaways from his comments:

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1. Fundamentals Over Flash — Especially in Playoff Prep

Despite the unique scheduling twist that pits OKC against a potential playoff opponent twice in one week, Daigneault dismissed the idea of holding back strategic wrinkles.

“People get caught up in hiding schemes,” he said. “But 80 or 90 percent of what matters—whether it’s now or the playoffs—is your fundamentals.”

He emphasized that guarding the ball, rebounding, and proper spacing will always matter more than tactical surprises. For a young team like the Thunder, this focus on core habits is what he believes will carry them deep into the postseason.

2. Chet Holmgren’s Defense is Ahead of Schedule

When asked about one of the Thunder’s standout defenders, Daigneault pointed to rookie Chet Holmgren’s rapid development.

“He came in with great defensive talent and competitiveness,” Daigneault said. “Now he’s learning the league—how to guard guys like James, Doncic, Reaves. Every time through, he picks up more.”

Holmgren, who started his first preseason game as a rookie, is showing he can keep up with the league’s elite offensive players—and that’s a key factor as OKC looks to make a postseason run.

3. Austin Reaves is the Lakers’ X-Factor

Daigneault offered high praise for Lakers guard Austin Reaves, highlighting his versatility and ability to impact the game both with and without the ball.

“He can shoot, play off closeouts, create in the second unit,” Daigneault said. “And he’s hard not to foul—he’s got all the tricks.”

Calling Reaves a “huge X-factor,” Daigneault noted that slowing him down will be just as important as limiting LeBron James or Luka Dončić, who the Thunder are still learning how to match up against in a revamped Lakers lineup.

The Thunder and Lakers face off today at 2:30 p.m. in Los Angeles. While the stakes are rising, OKC remains grounded in its identity—relying on hard-nosed defense, growing experience, and a commitment to the fundamentals.