- LeBron James Gets Honest About Kevin Durant After Lakers' Game 2 Win Newsweek —
- Marcus Smart understands the value of a second-chance in LA: ‘Redeem myself’ NY Post —
- LeBron James nets 28, Lakers grab 2-0 lead on Rockets in NBA Playoff series Al Jazeera —
- LeBron scores 28, leads short-handed Lakers past Durant's Rockets again 101-94 for 2-0 series lead ABC News —
- Lakers coach JJ Redick cites private conversation as team wins again USA Today —
- Smart's defense on KD helps Lakers to 2-0 lead ESPN —
- Lakers' 'Swiss Army knife' Marcus Smart sets the tone against Kevin Durant, Rockets Los Angeles Times —
- JJ Redick Had Clear Message for Critics After Lakers' Game 2 Win Over Rockets Newsweek —
- Kendrick Perkins Blasts Ime Udoka, Rockets: 'Dumbest Team' in Playoffs Newsweek —
- Same issues, mounting problem: Houston can't buy a shot vs. Lakers as Durant's playoff skid continues CBS Sports —
Lakers Take 2-0 Lead Over Rockets
Despite the return of Kevin Durant for Houston, the Lakers' defense, anchored by Marcus Smart, successfully neutralized the Rockets' offense.
Smart was praised for his leadership and 'Swiss Army knife' performance, which helped the team overcome the absence of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
The Rockets now face a critical Game 3 at home as they struggle to find their shooting rhythm.
Lakers coach JJ Redick credited a private team conversation for setting the tone for their surprising early series dominance.
Los Angeles Lakers
American professional basketball team
American professional basketball team
Houston Rockets
National Basketball Association team in Houston, Texas
National Basketball Association team in Houston, Texas
Kevin Durant
American basketball player
American basketball player
Marcus Smart
American basketball player (born 1994)
American basketball player (born 1994)