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LeBron James on his reverse dunk

The Los Angeles Lakers strengthened their position in the first round of the NBA playoffs with a 101-94 Game 2 win over the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night. The victory gave Los Angeles a 2-0 series lead as the matchup now shifts to Houston for Game 3.

LeBron James led the Lakers once again, finishing with 28 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves still sidelined due to injuries, the 41-year-old forward continued to carry a major role on both ends of the floor.

One of the defining moments of the night came in the third quarter, when James drove past Kevin Durant and finished with a reverse dunk. After the game, he addressed the play with a lighthearted response.

LeBron James Reacts to Reverse Dunk in Los Angeles Lakers Win

GettyLos Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James and Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant

During his postgame interview, James was asked about the athleticism required to complete the reverse dunk at this stage of his career.

“Speaking of physicality and athleticism, at 41, the reverse, what does that take?” the interviewer asked.

James responded with humor.

“I don’t even know what that was about. I got to sit the hell down. I got to sit down somewhere.”

The play came during a key stretch in the third quarter. After Houston briefly took the lead, the Lakers responded with a 13-4 run. James’ dunk was part of that sequence, helping Los Angeles regain control at 67-59.

The moment stood out not only because of its timing, but also because of James’ age and continued ability to make impact plays in transition and in space.

LeBron James, Marcus Smart Lead Los Angeles Lakers Past Houston Rockets

GettyLos Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart

James’ performance extended beyond that highlight. He scored 14 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter, helping the Lakers maintain separation as Houston attempted to rally late.

Los Angeles also received key contributions from its supporting cast. Marcus Smart scored 25 points, including 5-of-7 from three-point range, while Luke Kennard added 23 points.

The Lakers built momentum early, closing the first quarter on a 9-0 run to take a 33-26 lead. They extended the margin to 46-31 before Houston responded with a 17-3 run to cut the deficit to one point before halftime.

Kevin Durant, who returned after missing Game 1, led the Rockets with 23 points and nine rebounds. However, he was limited to just three points in the second half and finished with nine turnovers.

Alperen Sengun contributed 20 points and 11 rebounds for Houston, while Jabari Smith Jr. added 18 points and Amen Thompson had 16 points and nine assists.

Despite those efforts, the Rockets were unable to close the gap in the final minutes. A three-pointer by Josh Okogie cut the lead to 85-82 with just over six minutes remaining, but Los Angeles responded to maintain control.

James added a late dunk with under a minute to play after a Houston turnover, helping seal the win. Kennard followed by converting free throws to close out the game.

The Lakers have now taken a 2-0 series lead despite being without Doncic and Reaves. Their ability to control tempo and execute late in games has been a key factor through two contests.

The series now shifts to Houston for Game 3 on Friday. With momentum on their side and James continuing to lead both statistically and emotionally, Los Angeles will look to extend its advantage on the road.