LeBron James outduels Kevin Durant, but its Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard that have Lakers up 2-0 on Rockets
The Lakers defended well and their role players stepped up, while the Houston offense looks stuck in the mud.
LOS ANGELES ā Kevin Durant was back for the Rockets . That made the marquee matchup "LeBron James vs. Durant," a showdown of two of the all-time greats.
LeBron winning that showdown is not why the Lakers are up 2-0 in their series with the Rockets. It's because of their defense, which forced nine Durant turnovers. And it's because the Lakers have Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard.
That starting backcourt ā forced into action because of the injuries sidelining Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves ā combined for 48 points on Tuesday night, made huge defensive plays and 3-pointers, which proved to be the difference. That Lakers' defense held Durant to three points in the second half and hung on at the end for a 101-94 win that has them holding serve on their home court. The Lakers are up 2-0 as the series heads to Houston on Friday night.
LeBron earned his share of the spotlight, finishing the night with 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. He even had a reverse dunk at age 41. LEBRON BLOWS BY KD AND THROWS DOWN THE REVERSE!