LeBron James Reacts to Lakers Teammate's Performance Against Rockets

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

LeBron James Reacts to Lakers Teammate's Performance Against Rockets

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 19, 2026 8:47 PM ET

LeBron James led the Los Angeles Lakers against the Houston Rockets in Game 1 of their NBA playoffs matchup. James orchestrated the offense from the get-go, logging eight assists in the first quarter.

The 23-year veteran finished the game with 19 points, eight rebounds and 13 assists. He also had two steals and one block to round up his impressive performance. The Lakers secured a crucial win in Game 1, 107-98.

The Lakers are without two of their leading scorers, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, going into the postseason. Despite that, they still dictated the flow against the Rockets, who were without Kevin Durant.

The rest of the Lakers also stepped up, as all five starters had at least 14 points to their name. DeAndre Ayton double-doubled with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Marcus Smart had 15 points and 8 assists, while Rui Hachimura registered 14 points.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James against the Dallas Mavericks.Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

The leading scorer of the game, however, is seven-year veteran Luke Kennard. The 6-foot-5 shooting guard chipped in 27 points on 69.2% shooting and was also a perfect 5-of-5 from three.

Kennard’s hot hand helped the Lakers secure the Game 1 victory. This is a much-needed victory for the Purple and Gold as they try to hold the fort for Doncic and Reaves.

James praised Kennard for his performance, saying that he stepped up when they needed him.

"He stepped up big time,” James said of Kennard. “Every shot was timely shots as well, especially in the fourth quarter."

James and the Lakers definitely needed Kennard’s fiery shooting this game. In fact, Kennard has stepped up with both Doncic and Reaves sidelined. This has allowed James to orchestrate the offense more effectively and avoid exerting too much effort throughout the game.

The 17-time NBA Champions will look to secure the Game 2 victory on Tuesday. Tip-off from Crypto.com Arena is scheduled at 10:30 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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