LeBron James leads Los Angeles Lakers past Houston Rockets in NBA play-offs
LeBron James rolled back the years to guide the Los Angeles Lakers to a Game 1 victory over the Houston Rockets in the opening weekend of the NBA play-offs.
The veteran star produced a classic performance as the ultimate facilitator on Saturday.
He registered 13 assists, eight of which came in a blistering first quarter, to dictate the tempo against Houston.
Benefiting from this distribution was Luke Kennard, who struck five three-pointers on his way to 27 points.
A timeless play-off strategy
Surrounding the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with elite perimeter shooters has been a proven formula for nearly two decades.
By drawing multiple defenders, the four-time champion consistently created open spaces for his team-mates to exploit.
“He displayed great leadership throughout. We talked all week about being connected offensively and trusting the pass. He led us.”
JJ Redick, Los Angeles Lakers head coach
Cavaliers unveil fresh defensive approach
Elsewhere in the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers showcased a disciplined defensive scheme to defeat the Toronto Raptors.
Kenny Atkinson’s side had struggled defensively during the regular season, rotating through 41 different starting line-ups due to persistent injuries.
Entering the post-season with the league’s 15th-ranked defence, questions remained over their ability to contain elite scorers.
However, their revamped strategy successfully targeted Toronto’s primary attacking threat, Brandon Ingram.
Ingram had heavily punished the Ohio franchise during the regular season, but found his rhythm significantly disrupted in this crucial opening encounter.
