Lakers Secure Stunning Game One Victory Over Rockets, Led by LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a shocking 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 score by a player in their Lakers postseason debut. The Lakers capitalized on Kevin Durant's injury absence, but the matchup between James and Durant will have to wait. James emphasized his role as a triple threat, able to rebound, pass, shoot, and defend. The game was also notable for James sharing the court with his son, Bronny James, in the playoffs for the first time. The Lakers dominated the game, hitting 60.6 percent of their shots and holding the Rockets to 37.6 percent shooting. Game two is set for April 22. Meanwhile, other playoff games saw the Cleveland Cavaliers defeat the Toronto Raptors 126-113, the Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 116-105, and the New York Knicks win over the Atlanta Hawks 113-102. The 2026 NBA playoffs continue on Sky Sports with four games scheduled for April 19.