Without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Los Angeles Lakers seemed doomed heading into Game 1 against the Houston Rockets. Then, the other team lost Kevin Durant for that game.
The loss of Durant proved to be more detrimental for the Rockets in that scenario, but credit was certainly due to LeBron James‘ supporting cast for stepping up.
Luke Kennard stepped in for 38 minutes and dropped 27 points for the Lakers, on 69.2% shooting from the field. He drained 5-5 from three.
As for Marcus Smart, he played for 34 minutes and scored 15 points, while producing eight assists. The Lakers took down the Durant-less Rockets 107-98.
Heading into Game 2, the Rockets got their Kevin Durant boost. The veteran forward was cleared to play. Unfortunately for the Rockets, Durant’s presence didn’t prove to be a difference-maker in the end. The Lakers put the game away with a 101-94 win.
Kevin Durant Gets Honest On The Lakers Without Luka Doncic & Austin Reaves
It’s safe to say the Lakers are getting exactly what they need out of their Doncic and Reaves replacements within the rotation.
Durant has noticed and gave them props after Game 2.
“[They’re] just feeling super confident and free. Their backs are against the wall with two of their guys injured. They’re just out there, just playing free. You can play free like that, have no expectations, and come out and play your game,” Durant told reporters.
“Marcus Smart got them going in the first quarter, and then Luke got them going the rest of the way. Those guys, without their contributions and shooting the basketball, it’s tough to win a basketball game.”
Smart finished Game 2 with 25 points, while shooting 61.5% from the field. Kennard produced 23 points while hitting on 61.5% of his shots from the field.
The Lakers spoiled Durant’s return/playoff debut with the Rockets with a score of 101-94. The series heads to Houston, Texas, with Durant’s team trailing 0-2.
“We’ve got to get ready for Game 3,” Durant concluded.