Turin, 10 May (LaPresse) – Oklahoma City thrashed the Lakers 131-108 to take a 3-0 lead in the series, just one win away from reaching the Western Conference final of the NBA playoffs. The Los Angeles side stayed in the game throughout the first half, but then OKC stepped up a gear, led by Mitchell’s double-double of 24 points and 10 assists, with Gilgeous-Alexander adding 23 points and 9 assists. At the other end, LeBron James contributed 19 points and 8 assists. In the East, meanwhile, Cleveland beat Detroit 116-109 to narrow the deficit to 2-1 and bring the series back to life. Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 35 points, whilst Harden also made an excellent contribution, scoring 7 of his 19 points in a thrilling finale. Cunningham’s triple-double of 27 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists proved in vain for the Pistons.