The newly formed Big Three of the Los Angeles Lakers combined for 76 points, 16 rebounds, and 16 assists to defeat the Houston Rockets 101-94 in Game 2 of their Western Conference first-round series on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 (Philippine time).
Lakers Take 2-0 Series Lead
LeBron James, Marcus Smart, and Luke Kennard led the Lakers to a 2-0 advantage in the best-of-seven series. James, 41, playing in his 23rd season, recorded 29 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Smart added 25 points, two rebounds, and seven assists, while Kennard contributed 23 points, six rebounds, and two assists.
The trio's performance, particularly from Smart and Kennard, filled the void left by injured stars Luka Doncic (Grade 2 left hamstring strain) and Austin Reaves (Grade 2 left oblique muscle strain), who are part of the original Big Three alongside James.
Rockets' Durant Returns but Foul Trouble Limits Impact
Kevin Durant returned for the Rockets after missing Game 1 due to a bruised right knee sustained in practice. He scored 20 points in the first half but managed only three points in the second half due to foul trouble.
Alperen Sengun led Houston with 20 points, Jabari Smith Jr. added 18, and Amen Thompson contributed 16 points.
Other Playoff Results
In another Western Conference first-round series, the Portland Trail Blazers defeated the host San Antonio Spurs 106-103 to tie the series at 1-1. Spurs star Victor Wembanyama left the game early in the second quarter after falling and hitting his face on the floor; he did not return.
In the East, the Philadelphia 76ers beat the host Boston Celtics 111-97 to even their first-round series at 1-1.
