LeBron Shines Against Durant, But Unexpected Heroes Smart and Kennard Hold the Key to Lakers’ Shocking 2-0 Lead Over Rockets
LOS ANGELES — Kevin Durant was back for the Rockets. That made the marquee matchup “LeBron James vs. Durant,” a showdown of two of the all-time greats.
LeBron winning that showdown is not why the Lakers are up 2-0 in their series with the Rockets. It’s because of their defense, which forced nine Durant turnovers. And it’s because the Lakers have Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard. That starting backcourt — forced into action because of the injuries sidelining Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves — combined for 48 points on Tuesday night, made huge defensive plays and 3-pointers, which proved to be the difference.
That Lakers’ defense held Durant to three points in the second half and hung on at the end for a 101-94 win that has them holding serve on their home court. The Lakers are up 2-0 as the series heads to Houston on Friday night.



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