Without Kevin Durant, the Houston Rockets gave an undermanned Los Angeles Lakers team an advantage they didn’t expect.
The Lakers missed two of their top scorers in Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. Naturally, all of the attention got placed on LeBron James in that situation.
The NBA learned that being 41 doesn’t mean anything negative for LeBron James. He might not play at an MVP-caliber level, but he can certainly get the job done on the biggest stage for his team.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 12: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the second half of a game against the Chicago Bulls at Crypto.com Arena on March 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
Admittedly, the Rockets attempted to play as physically as they could against LeBron, but he made them pay.
Amen Thompson Admits The Mindset Against LeBron James
GettyCHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – FEBRUARY 19: Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets looks on during the first half of the basketball game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on February 19, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 David Jensen/Getty Images)
“[We were trying to be] physical,” Amen Thompson told reporters after the game on Saturday. “We know he’s trying to facilitate now. He’s trying to facilitate out the post more.”
The Rockets’ game plan might not have totally backfired, but it certainly wasn’t productive enough to shut down James, challenging the supporting cast to beat Houston’s defense.
“They were making a lot of tough shots,” Thompson explained. “Like, a lot of middies, a lot of turnarounds, and the shot clock.”
James checked in for 38 minutes in Game 1. He shot 9-15 from the field, dropping 19 points. The veteran forward racked up a double-double with 13 assists.
Beyond his offensive production, LeBron came down with eight rebounds and produced two steals and one block.
The Lakers Stole Game 1
GettyLos Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James
The absence of Durant was bound to cause the Rockets to take a hit, especially considering they hardly played without Durant all year long.
Still, the Lakers were at a disadvantage on paper, but they punished the Rockets.
As a result, the Rockets trail the series 0-1. While they could get Durant back soon, which would be a huge boost, Thompson and the rest of the team’s defense against James and Luke Kennard must improve.
The two teams will battle it out for Game 2 on Wednesday, April 22.
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