In Luka Doncic’s absence, the Los Angeles Lakers star Luke Kennard in the starting lineup, who stretched the floor in the 107-98 win against the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA playoffs.
Kennard played 38 minutes to score a game-high 27 points on 7-of-13 shooting from the field. He was automatic from the 3-point line as he made all five 3-pointers attempted. Moreover, he contributed four rebounds, three assists, and three turnovers.
Kennard’s efficient shooting complemented LeBron James on the floor well. The five-time NBA champion registered a double-double with 19 points and 13 assists to go along with eight rebounds, two steals and one block.
Kennard earned appreciation from NBA fans after he registered his best game for the franchise. Some fans even gave credit to the Lakers’ front office for initiating a trade for Kennard that included sending Gabe Vincent to the Atlanta Hawks.
“that white boy cold,” one fan wrote.
“Never ending supply of exciting Whites in LA,” another added.
“Luke Kennard turned into prime Klay for a night 😭” one fan remarked.
“First time I’ve see someone join the lakers and their shooting capability Doesn’t go away. Impressed,” one fan commented.
“Might mean nothing in the end but rob at least bought 1 playoff win with that trade sign this man after the season,” one fan added.
“THATS FORMER ATLANTA HAWK LUKE KENNARD!!” one fan wrote.
Lakers Star LeBron James Sizes Up Rockets
The Rockets were shorthanded entering Game 1 of their playoff series against the Lakers, with their superstar Kevin Durant ruled out due to a right knee contusion. The Lakers maximized the absence of the big man on the floor on both sides of the court with LeBron James able to strike down passes for baskets with ease.
“Yeah, I won’t get into that. I don’t want to give up the game plan on what I see out there. It’s a long series, but my guys managed to put themselves in position, and it’s my job to give them the ball in the right possible positions,” James said.
It’s not typical of LeBron to rely on others to make the game for him. But this time, the likes of Luke Kennard, Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton responded well with their shooting, requiring James to do little from a shooting point of view.
Ahead of Game 2 of the series on Tuesday at 7:30 PM PT, it will be interesting to learn if Luka Doncic and Kevin Durant are available for their respective teams.
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