Lakers ride backcourt surge to 2-0 lead, grind out 101-94 win over Rockets
TL;DR
The Lakers held off the Rockets 101-94 to take a 2-0 lead in the series, powered by a starting backcourt duo of Marcus Smart (25 points, 7 assists, 5 steals) and Luke Kennard (23 points). Durant had 23 for Houston but faced smothering multiple-defender coverage after a strong opening, while LeBron posted 28 points with clutch defense and distribution to keep LA in control in the latter stages.
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