While the presence of Kevin Durant posed a threat to the Los Angeles Lakers, it didn’t change the results of Game 2 in the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
JJ Redick’s squad entered the matchup missing two of their top scorers in Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves once again. They found a way to lock in on defense and embrace the challenge of a returning Kevin Durant.
The results? Another win. The Lakers are going to head to Houston, Texas, with a 2-0 record in the series.
JJ Redick Delivers Honest Thoughts On Lakers’ Defense vs Kevin Durant
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – APRIL 10: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second half at Toyota Center on April 10, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
“You have to guard him with team defense, and you have to be willing to make multiple efforts,” Redick told reporters after the game, according to Daniel Starkand. “That’s what we did.”
Durant was a man on a mission in the first half. The superstar forward collected 20 points through his first two quarters, as he made his Rockets playoff debut.
In the second half, the Lakers locked in.
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – APRIL 09: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets handles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Toyota Center on April 09, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
via Daniel Starkand, LakersNation: Kevin Durant in the second half: 3 points, 5 turnovers, 1/5 FG.
Durant finished Tuesday’s game with 23 points. He shot 7-12 from the field and 8-9 from the charity stripe.
Beyond limiting his points, the Lakers forced the superstar forward to turn the ball over nine times. That number tied his playoff career-high. Durant was responsible for 60.0% of the Rockets’ turnovers on the night.
The Lakers Can’t Get Too High
GettyLOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 10: Lakers head coach JJ Redick points at Lakers guard Luka Doncic, #77, not pictured, during a game with the Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles Tuesday, March 10, 2026. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
“We’re just getting this thing started,” Redick said to the media on Tuesday night. “He’s the type of player that can take over a series. We just have to continue to have great team defense and activity.”
The Lakers are in great shape with a 2-0 lead over the Durant-led Rockets. LA will wisely keep their excitement in check, as they hit the road for the first time in the playoffs, while remaining shorthanded.
The Rockets and the Lakers will resume the series for Game 3 on Friday, April 24.
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