- LeBron scores 28, leads short-handed Lakers past Durant's Rockets again 101-94 for 2-0 series lead ABC News —
- Smart's defense on KD helps Lakers to 2-0 lead ESPN —
- LeBron James nets 28, Lakers grab 2-0 lead on Rockets in NBA Playoff series Al Jazeera —
- Lakers beat Rockets to take 2-0 lead in first round of playoffs ABC7 Los Angeles —
- LeBron scores 28, leads Lakers past Durant's Rockets for 2-0 series lead AP News —
- Lakers topple Rockets in Kevin Durant’s return to take 2-0 series lead NY Post —
- Lakers beat Rockets in Game 2 with a new Big Three Los Angeles Times —
- Rockets star Kevin Durant returning for Game 2 at Lakers NY Post —
- Rockets star Kevin Durant set to return from knee injury for Game 2 vs. Lakers CBS Sports —
- Sources: Durant (knee) cleared to play in Game 2 ESPN —
Lakers Take 2-0 Series Lead
The Lakers relied on a new 'Big Three' of LeBron James, Marcus Smart, and Luke Kennard to overcome a hot start from Houston's Kevin Durant.
Smart's defensive pressure on Durant in the second half was instrumental in securing the win, while Kennard provided critical perimeter scoring.
The Rockets welcomed Durant back from a knee injury, but his 23 points were not enough to stop the Lakers' momentum.
Houston now faces a must-win Game 3 as the series shifts to their home court.
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
Marcus Smart
American basketball player (born 1994)
American basketball player (born 1994)
Kevin Durant
American basketball player
American basketball player