Lakers stun Rockets in opener

Luke Kennard scored a career playoff-high 27 points to lead the short-handed Lakers to a statement win at Crypto.com Arena.

LeBron James contributed 19 points and 13 assists, while Deandre Ayton added a double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds.

The Rockets struggled to find their offensive rhythm without Durant, who was ruled out just 90 minutes before tipoff with a right knee contusion.

The victory shifts momentum in the series as the fourth-seeded Lakers prove they can win without their full roster.