The Rockets welcomed Kevin Durant back to the lineup for Game 2 of their first-round matchup Tuesday, but the Lakers countered with a defensive focus that helped them seize control of the series.
Los Angeles put Marcus Smart on Durant and came away with a 101-94 victory, taking a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven set.
Defense sets the tone
With Durant available after missing Game 1, Houston had its top scoring option back on the floor. The Lakers responded by assigning Smart to the primary matchup, leaning on his on-ball pressure and physicality as part of a game plan aimed at limiting Durant’s impact.
The approach helped Los Angeles maintain its edge throughout the night, and the Lakers did enough offensively to close out the win.
Series snapshot
After two games, the Lakers have protected home court and now lead 2-0. The Rockets, despite getting Durant back for Game 2, head deeper into the series needing a response after dropping both of the opening contests.