Lakers take 2-0 playoff lead

The Los Angeles Lakers have defied expectations by winning two consecutive games without stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

LeBron James delivered a vintage performance with 28 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while Marcus Smart's defensive effort on Kevin Durant proved decisive.

The Rockets struggled to find rhythm despite Durant's return to the lineup, falling behind early in the second half.

As the series moves to Houston, the Lakers appear to have found a winning formula with their retooled 'Big Three' depth.