Lakers Stun Rockets in Game One Behind LeBron's Dominant Performance

The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a stunning 107-98 win against the Houston Rockets in the opening game of their first-round playoff series, with LeBron James leading the charge with 19 points and 13 assists. Luke Kennard also 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-induced absence, but the highly anticipated matchup between James and Durant will have to wait. "My role is to do a little bit of everything, that's what the team needs from me," James said. "I've been in every possible situation as a basketball player, so nothing can surprise me." The game was also notable for James sharing the court with his son, Bronny, in the playoffs for the first time, with their family in attendance. The Lakers' victory was fueled by their 60.6 percent shooting, while the Rockets were held to 37.6 percent. Game two is set to take place on April 22, live on Sky Sports. In other playoff action, the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Toronto Raptors 126-113, thanks to a combined 46 points from Max Strus and James Harden. The Denver Nuggets also secured a 116-105 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, with Nikola Jokic scoring a 25-point triple-double. The New York Knicks took an early series lead with a 113-102 win over the Atlanta Hawks, led by Jalen Brunson's 28 points and seven assists. The 2026 NBA playoffs 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.