Lakers Secure Stunning Upset in Game One Against Rockets, Led by LeBron James

In a shocking turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Houston Rockets 107-98 in the first game of their 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, and a personal playoff best after joining from Atlanta in February. The Lakers capitalized on Kevin Durant's injury-induced absence, but the highly anticipated matchup between James and Durant will have to wait. James stated, 'My role requires me to do a bit of everything, so I need to be a triple threat, rebounding, passing, shooting, defending, and creating value for the team.' 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' success can be attributed to their 60.6% shooting accuracy, while limiting the Rockets to 37.6%. Game two is scheduled for April 22, live on Sky Sports. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers began the 2026 playoffs with a 126-113 win over the Toronto Raptors, thanks to a 46-point combined effort from Max Strus and James Harden. The Denver Nuggets also secured a 116-105 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, with Nikola Jokic achieving 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 will continue on Sky Sports, with four games scheduled for April 19, including the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, Orlando Magic vs. Detroit Pistons, and Portland Trail Blazers vs. San Antonio Spurs.