Lakers overcome injuries to beat Rockets in NBA play-off opener

The Los Angeles Lakers made a strong start to their NBA play-off campaign, defeating the Houston Rockets 107-98 despite missing several key players.

The Lakers were without Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and Maxi Kleber, but veteran star LeBron James stepped up with a commanding performance.

The 41-year-old delivered 19 points, 13 assists and eight rebounds, controlling the tempo of the game and guiding his side to victory in the opening game of the best-of-seven series.

The Rockets were also dealt a major blow before tip-off, losing Kevin Durant to a knee injury. The 37-year-old is reportedly nursing a bruised knee but could return for game two on Tuesday.

Lakers coach JJ Redick praised his team’s mentality, insisting they stayed focused despite the absences.

“You can't worry about who's in or out of the line-up. It's our gameplan, our standards, and how we play,” he said. “Our guys responded well and met the moment.”

Luke Kennard also played a crucial role, scoring a career play-off high 27 points to help seal the win.

Elsewhere on day one of the play-offs, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks all secured victories.

In the play-in tournament, the Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic booked their spots in the play-offs.

Defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder are set to begin their title defence against the Suns on Sunday night.