Rockets Lose the Battle Between Role Player, Dropping Game 1 in LA
With stars sidelined, a surprising showdown unfolds as role players ignite, but ultimate success hinges on who steps up when it matters most.
The Houston Rockets got an unfortunate surprise heading into Game 1 of the playoffs this season. Just about an hour before they tipped off, star forward Kevin Durant was ruled out of the match. This wasn’t the most shocking news, as his injury was reported 24 hours prior, but he was downgraded from questionable to out.
As both were teams now starting the postseason without their leading scorers available, the Saturday night finale was shaping up to look a little different. The Lakers knew they’d be without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, and it looked like they were prepared. They’ve had a few games and more than two weeks without their guys, since both of them last played against OKC on April 2nd.
They came out scorching, with LeBron James proving to everyone why he’s one of the best to ever do it. His seven assists in the first seven minutes showed everyone why he’s still one of the best to ever step on an NBA court. That propelled Los Angeles to a 12/14 start from the field, making all ten of their two point attempts.
The Rockets weren’t too far behind, shooting 9/14 as Jabari Smith Jr’s corner three pulled Houston within two. 24-26 with just under four minutes remaining in the quarter. Obviously some defense needed to be played, and Amen Thompson tried to get the party started with a chase down on Luke Kennard —— but then the offense couldn’t convert to tie or regain the lead.