By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Houston Rockets opened a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series opposite to the Los Angeles Lakers with a 112-97 victory Friday in the NBA bubble set up in Orlando.
James Harden powered his side with 36 points behind 12/20 from the field. Russell Westbrook contributed 24 points alongside nine rebounds and six assists. Eric Gordon added 23 points.
Only a couple of days after the conclusion of their first-round playoffs series, the Rockets never trailed after the first quarter against the well-rested Lakers playing only their second game in 11 days.
Danuel House Jr. exited in the third quarter due to a head injury. He went down and returned to the locker room after colliding with P.J. Tucker while jumping for a rebound.
Anthony Davis posted a 25-point, 14-rebound double-double in losing effort. LeBron James registered 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Rajon Rondo playing for the first time since the resumption of the 2019-20 season had eight points in 25 minutes.
Game 2 is scheduled to take place Sunday.
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