Lakers Grab Game 1 Underscored by LeBron and Kennard in 1-0 Series Start
TL;DR Summary
The Los Angeles Lakers opened the 2026 NBA playoffs with a 107-98 win over the Houston Rockets to take a 1-0 series lead. LeBron James set the tone with 19 points, 13 assists and 8 rebounds, including eight assists in the first quarter, while Luke Kennard contributed a career-best 27 points as the Lakers shot 60.6% from the floor. The Rockets were without Kevin Durant and struggled offensively, and Rockets star Durant’s status for Game 2 remained uncertain. Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart and Rui Hachimura also produced key stretches for L.A. as they prepare for Game 2 on Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. PT.
- Lakers Receive More Good News After Game 1 Win Vs. Rockets heavy.com
- LeBron plays 'triple threat' as Lakers upset Rockets in Game 1 ESPN
- Luke Kennard receives special endorsement after Lakers huge Game 1 win Yahoo Sports
- No Kevin Durant, no answer: Lakers take Game 1 from Rockets The New York Times
- Lakers vs. Rockets odds, prediction, time: 2026 NBA playoff picks, Game 1 best bets from advanced model CBS Sports
Reading Insights
Total Reads
0
Unique Readers
6
Time Saved
5 min
vs 6 min read
Condensed
90%
1,065 → 104 words
Want the full story? Read the original article
Read on heavy.com