The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a stunning 107-98 win over the Houston Rockets in the opening game of their first-round playoff series, with LeBron James contributing 19 points and 13 assists. Luke Kennard made history with a 27-point game, the second-highest points scored by a player in their Lakers postseason debut. The Lakers capitalized on Kevin Durant's injury absence, but the highly anticipated matchup between James and Durant will have to wait.
James emphasized the need to adapt and bring value to the team, saying, "I gotta do a little bit of everything, that's what the job requires." The game was also notable for James sharing the court with his son, Bronny James, in the playoffs for the first time. The Lakers' victory was fueled by their 60.6% shooting accuracy, while the Rockets were limited to 37.6%. The series continues on April 22, with game two airing live on Sky Sports.
In other playoff action, the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Toronto Raptors 126-113, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 116-105. The New York Knicks also secured a 113-102 win over the Atlanta Hawks.
The 2026 NBA playoffs will continue on Sky Sports this Sunday, with four games scheduled, including the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics and the Phoenix Suns vs. Oklahoma City Thunder.