The round one series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets has officially concluded. LeBron James and the Lakers are officially moving on.
Following the game, James and the Houston Rockets’ superstar Kevin Durant shared a postgame moment for the final time this season.
via Hoop Central on X: LeBron x Durant. Nothing but respect. ✊
Nothing but respect. ✊
While the series between LeBron and Kevin Durant was highly anticipated, considering they are some of the most notable players of their generation, the battle fell flat.
James, 41, was healthy and available throughout the entire six-game series. Durant battled two setbacks, which prevented him from playing in all but one game.
Kevin Durant Has A Setback To Worry About
In the days leading up to Game 1, Durant suffered a knee contusion. After seeing the court for 78 games during the regular season, Durant was out for Game 1.
The veteran forward returned to the court for Game 2, eager to get the favored Rockets in the winner’s column.
After checking in for 40 minutes, Durant produced 23 points, six rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block. The Rockets lost 101-94. During Game 2, Durant suffered an ankle injury, which prevented him from playing throughout the remainder of the series.
The Rockets managed to win two games, which forced Game 6 on Friday, but that was it for the series. LeBron and the Lakers dominated the Durant-less Rockets 98-78. Houston falls out in the first round for the second year in a row.
What’s Next For The Lakers?
The Lakers will travel to Oklahoma City to face the OKC Thunder.
Game 1 is expected to take place on May 5 for the Lakers. The last time the Lakers made it to the second round was during the 2022-2023 season. At the time, LA defeated the Memphis Grizzlies. The Lakers followed with a 4-2 win over the Golden State Warriors in round two. The Lakers came up short in the Western Conference Finals against the Denver Nuggets.
Round two will be a major challenge this season, as the Lakers are set to face the defending champions in the Thunder.