Luke Kennard Sends Strong Message After Big Game for Lakers

Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Luke Kennard Sends Strong Message After Big Game for Lakers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 19, 2026 7:40 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers got a big Game 1 win against the Houston Rockets, 107-98, led by Luke Kennard. The 2025-26 NBA three-point percentage leader scored a game-high 27 points. Kennard was efficient from the field, shooting 69.2% and 5-of-5 from three.

During this season’s trade deadline, the seven-year veteran was traded to the Lakers for Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick. This proved to be a vital move for Los Angeles, as he was a key piece in helping them close out the season.

The Purple and Gold finished as the fourth seed in the West with a 53-29 record. Unfortunately, the Lakers lost their MVP candidate, Luka Doncic, to an injury in April. To top it off, Austin Reaves was also sidelined in the same game, leaving them without two key players.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and guard Austin Reaves (15).© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Lakers immediately set the tone to start Game 1 on Saturday, and they never took their foot off the pedal. The 17-time NBA Champions shot 60.6% from the field and 52.6% from three. Their biggest lead was 16 points, led by Kennard’s flurry.

Kennard discussed his mentality during his post-game interview.

“It’s everybody continuing to build confidence in me,” he said. “To be aggressive and look for my shot whenever I can.”

Kennard sounded off on his hot night from the field with a strong message.

“When I see space and the rim, I'm going to look to get it up,” he said. “My teammates want me to do that, my coaches want me to do that. So, yeah, another opportunity to do that on Tuesday.”

“It’s everybody continuing to build confidence in me to be aggressive and look for my shot whenever I can. … When I see space and the rim, I'm going to look to get it up” - Luke Kennard after scoring a career playoff high 27 pts on 9-of-13 shooting (5-of-5 from 3) pic.twitter.com/0xQaQCH8RN
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 19, 2026

Kennard's presence on the floor stretches the game for the Lakers, giving his teammates more space to operate. Defenders can’t afford to leave him open — especially when he gets hot — affording the likes of LeBron James and DeAndre Ayton more time and space.

Kennard and the Lakers will want to keep the momentum going in Game 2 on Tuesday.

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

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