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HOUSTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 29: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets speaks with the media during NBA Media Day at Toyota Center on September 29, 2025 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 Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)

Without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Los Angeles Lakers seemed doomed heading into Game 1 against the Houston Rockets. Then, the other team lost Kevin Durant for that game.

The loss of Durant proved to be more detrimental for the Rockets in that scenario, but credit was certainly due to LeBron James‘ supporting cast for stepping up.

Luke Kennard stepped in for 38 minutes and dropped 27 points for the Lakers, on 69.2% shooting from the field. He drained 5-5 from three.

GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 18: Luke Kennard #10 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after making a three point shot during the second half of Game One of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs against the Houston Rocketsat Crypto.com Arena on April 18, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

As for Marcus Smart, he played for 34 minutes and scored 15 points, while producing eight assists. The Lakers took down the Durant-less Rockets 107-98.

Heading into Game 2, the Rockets got their Kevin Durant boost. The veteran forward was cleared to play. Unfortunately for the Rockets, Durant’s presence didn’t prove to be a difference-maker in the end. The Lakers put the game away with a 101-94 win.

Kevin Durant Gets Honest On The Lakers Without Luka Doncic & Austin Reaves

GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – JANUARY 20: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets speaks with the media after the game against the San Antonio Spurs at Toyota Center on January 20, 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 Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)

It’s safe to say the Lakers are getting exactly what they need out of their Doncic and Reaves replacements within the rotation.

Durant has noticed and gave them props after Game 2.

“[They’re] just feeling super confident and free. Their backs are against the wall with two of their guys injured. They’re just out there, just playing free. You can play free like that, have no expectations, and come out and play your game,” Durant told reporters.

“Marcus Smart got them going in the first quarter, and then Luke got them going the rest of the way. Those guys, without their contributions and shooting the basketball, it’s tough to win a basketball game.”

GettyPHOENIX, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 26: Marcus Smart #36 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the second half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center on February 26, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Lakers 113-110. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Smart finished Game 2 with 25 points, while shooting 61.5% from the field. Kennard produced 23 points while hitting on 61.5% of his shots from the field.

The Lakers spoiled Durant’s return/playoff debut with the Rockets with a score of 101-94. The series heads to Houston, Texas, with Durant’s team trailing 0-2.

“We’ve got to get ready for Game 3,” Durant concluded.