NBA LIVE! Los Angeles Lakers vs Houston Rockets August 9, 2025 | 2025 NBA Season Live 2K
Heat. Heat. N. [Music] Yeah, each of these teams are anchored by their big men and I think it’s going to be physical and highly intensified. And now the Lakers starting group. Andre Eaton out there with James. Then there’s Donic. Then it’s Austin Reeds. And it’s Hachimura in at the three spot. Here’s Durant. Out of bounds. The Lakers will take possession. Lakers ball. And the Lakers with possession here. [Applause] Here’s Reeves. [Applause] Eighton dishes to Donic and two free throws coming up. Unable to get that one to go with all the content. Greg, you think about oversized point guards and the gold standard has always been Magic Johnson. Now you look at Luca Donic and he’s certainly big for that position. Definitely some positive similarities, right? But the big difference is one of those guys has five rings. And that’s not a knock on Donic. This is a team sport. But Magic’s ability to affect winning was right there with another MJ, Michael Jordan. And he knocks down the first one and Clark for the Lakers. Their last two seasons ended in playoff losses to the Denver Nuggets. And I tell you what, they fought hard both times, Kevin. The point differential was only 24 points over the four games in 2023 and just 11 points in 2024. LA actually led most of the five game series but weren’t able to advance. All free throws good from Donic and Clark. It’s hard to compare Luca Donuch to any other player we’ve seen before. I would certainly agree with that. Dittos to that Kevin because he is unique. His pace is never hurried. He never gets rattled. He complains to officials a little bit more than I’d like to see, but he’s strong. He’s got great touch and feel, and he scores at all three levels, and he’s a brilliant passer. Durant shooting two, taking two shots. [Applause] That free throw good from Durant and always hovering around the 50 4090 mark. Kevin Durant is both prolific and Greg efficient. And Kevin, you want to talk about guys in this league who make winning plays time and time again. Katy is right at the top of that list. Durant nails both of them. And Clark, the Rockets, just one of a handful of franchises to win back-to- back NBA titles. Can you believe that, Kevin? It was roughly 30 years ago that the Rockets did that. Led by Hakee Elijahan, perhaps the best player in the league at that time. Of course, this was while Michael Jordan was retired from the NBA the first time. James that shot off Durant with some nice deep and so it’s KD with it. He brings up the ball for Houston. Thompson kicks to KD. Six to shoot. Takes a three. [Applause] Reeves with the rebound. And the great shooters know when they’ve got enough opening to go for the three. I didn’t think it was a bad choice on that possession. Now the Rockets with it. How would send it over to David Aldridge who was able to talk with Eay Ludoka. Now if you think Luca Donis is a problem, you’re right. Coach told me he’ll reach the situation as well as anyone. We’ll try to give him different looks. The goal is just to slow him down and try to make someone else beat us. We’ll see where it ends up. Kevin, back to you. Thank you, David. Back to Donic. Just about two minutes into the game, first quarter of basketball. And Aiden throws it down. Boy, with the basketball IQ of a 15-year vet, Donic makes plays that even veterans struggle with. Pass to Shenun. Now here’s Thompson. Houston moving the ball around. Shenun with a screen on Himura. That one from long range. And he likes to get in a rhythm early. Nice triple. The Lakers have gone one of three from the field to start this one so far. Reeves the pass to Hatchima. The three from LeBron. It’s good. He scores. That’s his first basket after missing his first two attempts. Now one for three. That’s the competitive fire that burns with LeBron James. He’s happy to come right back with one of his own. Whitmore finds KD. Plays it up and banks it in. Durant’s got six points. Boy, he is looking confident. Love how they’re using him so far. And you know what? They’re going to keep using. I mean, he’ll be the centerpiece of their offense today. You can bank on that. Reeves the pass to Donic. And it’s Van Fleet with the rebound. That’s a surprise. I mean, really out of character for him to miss when the defense is not right up on it. Durant kicks to Venley. Nice team from Donic. Lakers have gone two of five here, making 40% so far to start out the game. With the step back, here’s LeBron. Takes it off the glass. He has five and making it look easy. LeBron overwhelms the defense inside. Van Vleet passes to Shenu. Teardrop shot and that’s two points on the L. How about that wonderful floater he has showing off an exquisite touch. Lakers have gone 50% from the field hitting three of six since the opening tip. Reeves against Thompson. Reeves gets the bucket. Boy, at the offensive end, his game is so impressive. I mean, he’s a threat every time off the floor. Thompson outside. Van Vleet kicks to Thompson. KD has for two. Rebound the Lakers. Well, you’ve got to be there defensively. I mean, that’s an easy mid-range jumper that he’ll typically drain. That gives them the lead. Seven points for LeBron. And once James gets the ball near the rim, just let him go to work because he knows what he’s doing down there. And timeout is called by Eime Udoko. He’s made the decision he wants to huddle up with his guys. Here’s Van Fleet. Scoreless thus far. Down low. Stolen by Reeves. [Applause] Pass to Donic. Reeves with the screen for Donic. Shoots over Van Fleet and the Lakers take on two more. A gifted score. Luca is going to find a way to get the shots up that he wants to take. [Applause] Thompson against Reeves. Thompson looking for an opening and the rejection by LeBron and he gets it back. Six on the shot clock. Second chance effort. The Lakers with the rebound. [Applause] Fires for three. That’s good. And it’s his fourth basket of the game. He’s a strong four for six. Nice play. And you can see they’re gathering momentum. You know, they need to stay aggressive here. Build the lead up while they’ve got the chance. Don’t waste this opportunity. Houston moving the ball around. Durant kicks to Vanley [Applause] pass to Shenun to end the run and Shenun throws it down. Puts Burkish under. Shangon tasting the sauce up top to the paint. They get a hand on it. Hatchimal. It’s good. He makes his first shot of the game. And those are the kind of nice inside looks they’ve gotten here in the first half. KD a screen on Reeds and stolen by LeBron. Now the Lakers on the break goes up and he caps off the fast break with a monster slam. LeBron doing what he does best creating for and elevating others. Thompson passes to Durant and stolen by LeBron. to the middle line trying to find Jen Yun. He gets it to him. Really seizing the momentum of this game, but doing it with a methodical approach. And you know that involves pounding it inside, getting as many points as you can right at the rim. That demoralizes the team. Dan Vleet with a screen on LeBron. [Applause] Shooting foul as the whistle blows. He’ll shoot two free throws. That’s on LeBron James. KD is so good at drawing contact. Really smart at finding ways to draw fouls and get to the line. Two shots and he makes the first. One thing about the Lakers, Clark, over the last couple seasons, they get themselves to the free throw line. Yeah. And a lot of that is due to the fact they’ve got some real creators in their lineup. Guys who can attack off the dribble at multiple positions from multiple angles and that creates pressure for the defense. Catching up on the changes for Houston Adams. He’s checked in first. Jangu and Smith subbed in for Thompson. Free throw shooting is about mechanics, confidence, and your mental approach. He’s locked in from there most every night. And stolen by Whitmore. And the jam by Kevin Durant. That’s the defense’s fault right there. You can’t allow Durant to get that kind of position. Donic catch to Himi Mura. Back to Donic. [Applause] And that’ll be two free throws coming up. Officials on the call with the foul. GA, if you look back at the Rockets history, so many alltime greats have spent time there. Yeah, it’s an impressive list, right? Elijah, Moses Malone, Calvin Murphy, and Harden. Houston’s well represented in the Hall of Fame. [Applause] First free throw is good. Luca Donis is a do-it-all player. I mean, he does everything for this team, including being a walking triple double threat on a game by-game basis. [Applause] free throw is good from Donic. Pockets trail by nine. Now Van Vleet. Nothing on the board. Pass to Whitmore. Good. And Van Vleet gets the assist. Van Vleet’s got four assists in the game. And Whitmore a beast inside because of his power and ability to elevate. [Music] Here’s Reeds. Whitmore defending shot up two there. Hatchim got his second basket. Great job of screening there. Nice job to take it to the rim and get the finish. Van Glee gets to Smith. [Applause] Back to Van Glee. fires the three. Breeze with the rebound. Los Angeles leading by nine inside. Stolen by Van Vleet. And a wideopen look for Whitmore. You have to put a body on Adam. He’s too good of an offensive rebounder to not pay attention. [Applause] Donic against Van Vleet. Eightton sets the pick for Donic. Shoots over Van Fleet and it’s Donic missing. Houston’s gone just 104 from three-point range here in the first and that one’s good. Whitmore now just a fivepoint Los Angeles lead. And so Donic will bring it up for Los Angeles. A moment now to hear from our sideline reporter, Hall of Famer David Alton. David, Kevin, thanks. If you think Luca Donuch makes amazing shots in games, you should see his trick shots. It’s legendary stuff with his teammates. Luca says, “I’m just making them up. I like to have fun, so sometimes I just try some new stuff.” And of course, Kevin, he always feels like they’re going. Thank you, Da. He is a magician with the ball. A very creative mind. It’s fun to watch. [Music] And here is Durant. 10 points for him. Shot clock at six. Two minutes remaining in the first two minutes. Shoots from 12. Lakers with the rebound. There’s 154 left in the first quarter. Pass to Reeds. Shoots over Van Fleet. It’s hauled in by Kevin Durant. And here are the Rockets now. They’re on a 12 to four run. And that’s basket number four. He’s taken nine shots to this point. Nice handles, tight handles, fluid handles, right into his shooting motion. Durant able to do everything on the offensive end. And it’s Donic missing and and he has definitely been struggling in this quarter. You know, guys, it seems to me as though he’s over anxious. He seems to be pressing, trying too hard, moving too fast. Just needs to calm himself down and wait for good shots. The Lakers in the lead from deep rebound by Smith and he didn’t particip it from 14 and it’s Adams on the follow and the Rockets lead by one. Oh, how about the finesse there? Nice little gentle touch on the board. And you know, when you have that gentle touch, those tip ends are easy to come by, but only if you grind hard enough to get yourself in tight before the shot goes up, guys. You got to get your work done before the shot is attempted. Donic bounce and Aton throws it down. Impressive at using the pick and roll. Aton slips well to the basket after setting that screen. KD against Hatchim. KD draws the double. Here’s Whitmore. Offensive rebound. Here’s the three and it’s Kevin Durant with the three. KD’s got 15. Several lead changes going on here in the early portion of this game. It reminds me of that cameo song back and forth. Both teams have it going here early. And still close through the first quarter. Houston on top as they end the first quarter with an energy burst. A 19-6 run. We’ll be back shortly live from Houston, Texas. [Applause] And this has been a fairly close game through the first quarter. And we’ll see what happens here in the second. And a chance for just a second now to check out the scoring breakdown for the Rockets. They’re controlling the pace of this game, pushing the ball up court and getting good looks in early offense. You know, another point I’d like to add is that they’ve had tremendous success early on converting turnovers and turning those into points. The Lakers trail the post pair form. It’ll be Smith and Shenu. Then it’s Griffin. Then it’s Tari Een. And it’s Holiday. in at the point. That’s the group starting the second quarter for the Rockets. Shots good. Griffin making the play. Holidays got his first bucket in this one. And that’s how to make an impact with defense. Once the steal is made, you know they’re going to be scattered. You’re smart. Good for the basket. Starting off one for one with that shot. Every year, Greg, we get a new batch of rookies into the NBA, and sometimes we’re all guilty of judging them too early. Oh, absolutely. I think we need probably 3 years to evaluate a play. You know, fans and media can can be a little harsh at times, but not everybody develops at the same rate. It’s his first trip to the line and converted more than four out of every five free throw attempts last year. So just solid at the line, guys. I thought he got into a groove last year at the charity stripe and I thought he maintained it deep into the season as well. You throw good Smith. And something that’s already interesting about Jabari Smith is his versatility. Scoring from beyond the arc or at the mid-range. He can get points a number of ways. Tate, he’s checked in for the Rockets. Shepard comes in for Aaron Holiday. And that one goes in. Two from the line that time. Here’s Donic. [Applause] Nine ft out and it’s in after a nice bounce off the right side. Donic has got eight points. Luca is a massive guard. He can do damage inside just as easily as outside. Shepard with the ball now guarded by Smart. Shenun against Vanderbilt. Five on the clock. Shepard with the ball. Vanderbilt with the rebound. Well, I like his determination and his attitude and aggressiveness, but the defense wasn’t going to back off that shot. They were tight on it. outside. Smart. Hayes with the screen for Smart. Gets it to go from beyond the arm. Smart’s got his second basket of the game. A lot of give and take between these sides early. Yeah, both teams look like they came to play. He should have a good Here’s Sheeparded by Smart. Here’s Shenun right on the bucket. Six points for him. Love when Shenun looks to score, especially from the interior. Incredible for his age. The decision making of Shenun G is very impressive. So calm when he sees a double coming. Reads and reacts with ease when he’s on the block or at the nail. Reminds you of a young Jokic with how he sees the game. Here’s Shepard guarded by Smart. fires from 14. Smith the pass to Shenu. Second chance shot. Nice fake but the layup off the mark. And so it’s Smart who brings up the ball for the Los Angeles Lakers to the inside. Hayes finds Vanderbilt. Tate against Donic over Shepard and it’s Donic missing. You can’t look at the result of that shot. They’ll take that whenever they get Well, you know, I hear you. That’s a good look, but when you’re that wide open, I think you got to knock it down. Back to Smith. Fires from deep. Offensive rebound. Shenun. Ethan’s shot is good. Beautiful setup. You see right there, Alparan Shangon. His game isn’t all about power. outside. Smart and the call on the shot. It sends in to the line. It’s on Reed Shepard for Los Angeles. They have looked good at the line tonight. They’re perfect in four attempts. Yeah. A year ago though, Kevin, 78% conversion rate from the free throw line. So, that’s a nice allaround effort. The first one falls and some of what Smart gives this team doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet, but but he makes plays that help you win. Looking at who’s out there now for the Rockets. Amen. Thompson comes in for Tate and it’s Fred Van Vleet in for Shepard Aton. He’s checked in for the Lakers. Austin Reeves comes in for connect and so Smart nails both of them. Houston’s gone one of two on three-pointers here in the second quarter so far. And we’ve got a timeout called from Eay Udoko. [Applause] And almost four minutes gone here in the second quarter of play. Pass to Smith. He’s in with it. Trying to find Shenun. He gets it to him. Shoots. He claims that one off the back iron and down it falls. Shenun’s got eight points. Lakers have gotten four of their first five shots to fall in the second quarter. Outstanding shooting. Reeves the pass to Donic. Reeves with a screen on Thompson. The three for Donic. Knocks down the three ball. Donic has got seven points here in the quarter. Watch out now when Donic is dialed in from deep because he’s unguardable. And Vet on the wing and too much time in the lane. They get called for the 3second violation. [Applause] LA’s gotten both of their three-point attempts to go down here in the second quarter. Outside Smart back to Donic and the three off target. The Rockets trail and Van Bleet. Here we go. And it’s Smith missing. Lakers have gone five of seven from the field here in the second. [Applause] Smart against East. Smart passes to Donic. Pocket six for three. That doesn’t go either for Donic. Not sure why he keeps trying his love from deep here. It’s just not his night. As to Thompson, handle wide open. The Rockets again can’t hit. It’s a close game here in Houston. Here’s Smart and he gets the whistle. Two free throws coming up. As tough as they get, smart, a bulldog out there, does a good job of drawing contact often times by initiating it. And some stats here, guys, is the scoring breakdown for Los Angeles. You know, so far in this one, these guys have been knocking it down from distance. You’ve got to like their confidence as this game continues. They’re on a nice roll. You also have to admire how they’ve challenged the defense inside. Getting a lot of points in the paint. He’s off on the first. Houston is switching. Durant’s checked in. And then for the Lakers, LeBron’s checked in for Vanderbilt. And it’s Hachimura in for Austin Reeds. [Applause] Good on the second free throw and it’s Van Vleet with the ball for Houston. Trailing by two. [Applause] Thompson high post. Good. And Van Vleet gets the assist. Van Vleet’s got five assists in the game. And great find by Vanble. He’s in control of this offense and generally makes good decisions. Maybe he’s not one of the elite sharpshooters, but even still, that’s not a shot that D could afford to give him. Now, here’s Thompson Shangu with a wide open look. And they wasted no time getting those three points back. For real. Come at us and we’re coming right back at you. A little back and forth from long range. I love it. That’s a terrific answer there. And it’s Donic missing. Most rough shooting night tonight, but you can’t fault him for the effort. Here’s Katy hustling it in. Kevin Durant. An outstanding performance from Durant so far. But you know what? That’s part of the course for him. He’s just a natural scorer. [Applause] passed eight. Kicks it out to James for the three and the rebound goes to the Rockets. Shenun’s got his fourth rebound in this one. Smith the best to Van Cle. Here’s Shangon. It’s good. And it’s a four-point rocket lead. defense on top of Shangon inside, but he uses his agility to overcome it. Pass to Hatchima. And here is LeBron. Oh, drew the foul. Almost hit the three-point bucket, but he’ll go to the line to shoot three. A good job trying to get a hand in the face, but you’ve got to be more careful, especially on a three-point attempt. I mean, you have to defend that shot without fouling. Now you give a guy three free throws and he’s good on the first of three. We passed year 20 for LeBron James. Clark, how is he still doing this? Well, I’d love to find out, but he’s got a combination of remarkable DNA and obviously a tremendous work ethic and attention to detail and taking care of his body, but some of it is it’s a blend of um good fortune and a lot of hard work. But he’s played at a level at his age that I never thought I’d see in basketball. It’s different in other sports, but to do what he’s doing on the court is amazing. [Applause] and he can’t make it. Three for three and LeBron the only player to reach 40,000 points in his career. Clark, you’re shaking your head. It’s incredible, isn’t it? Absolutely remarkable, Kevin. And I did not think I would see it in my lifetime. 40,000 points. Just the sound of that is ridiculous. And you know, he not only has lived up to the height that has followed him since he was 15 years old, he’s actually exceeded it, Kevin, which is crazy. And this is where Adams has the biggest impact. The closer to the basket, the more effective he is. It’s time now to hear from our Hall of Fame reporter, David Aldridge. What’s the latest, David? Kevin, the Rockets are making progress. Coach Umeoka said it doesn’t happen overnight. Changing habits and things like that takes time. Guys learn and grow at a different pace. I think is getting us all on the same page. Not that far off. Kevin, they sure look like they’re building in the right direction. David, they are. And some good vets have helped as well, and we thank you for that report. The Lakers making a switch here. Vincent’s checked in. [Applause] Look, the physicality has always stood out with LeBron. It’s been obvious, but his basketball IQ is what makes him such a special special player. I mean, he sees the game like very few ever have. Van Vet right side Durant and it’s Eightton with the rebound. Eightton’s got his sixth rebound on the night. Durant against Hatchim. Pass to Jav [Applause] and the rebound goes to the Rockets. Adams has got nine rebounds now tonight. Thompson passes to Van Fleet. Had a hand on it and he gets it back. Smith for three. Here’s Adams. And at last, they get one to fall. Adams has got eight points. Really strong rebounding on the interior and he gets the easy put back. And here’s LeBron outside. It’s rebounded by Houston. And Glee on the wing. Smith kicks to KD and Smith with the assist that time. Durant’s got the lead up to six now for Houston. When it comes to catch and shoot situations, Durant as reliable as it gets. James outside. LeBron James making it look easy from deep. The reel. Come at us and we’re coming right back at you. A little back and forth from long range. I love it. That’s a terrific answer there. Adams with the screen on Himura and Durant gets it to go. Yeah, Durant and his teammates really in sync. I mean, helping each other out, facilitating for each other. That basket there, a real team effort. And a wide open look for Hatimura. And again, Los Angeles with the triple. I like the offensive awareness to exploit that lack of coverage on that play. Adams outside. That’s going to be out of bounds. The Rockets will retain possession. So for the Rockets, Shenun’s checked in for Steven Adams. And it’s Whitmore in for Jabari Smith. Shenun Whitmore on defense. The Lakers. Shenun with the screen for Van Vleet. And Shenun with the basket on the assist from Van Vleet. And that’s 15 points for Shenun. Good time. [Applause] KD against James. Eight of screen on Durant and contact on the shot. So he’ll be shooting free throws here. It’s on Kevin Durant. And such a physical player inside. LeBron doesn’t fear contact on the way up. The Lakers have been getting it done at the line. 10 for 12. That free throw missing. You got this. You got this. [Applause] And he sinks the second. [Music] Houston leading by three. Outside KD. [Applause] Shenun with the screen for Durant. And it’s off from three-point range. And so it’s Hatchima who brings up the ball for Los Angeles. Here’s Vincent. That shot off the mark. Some solid defense there from KD. Pass to Whitmore. And a lot of contact on that one. So he’ll shoot two here. That’s on LeBron James. This is what I love about Whitmore. His fearless attitude and that ability to draw foul. The Rockets have been perfect so far from the free throw line. Six for six shots. Yeah. And and fairly decent a season ago. About 77% from the line. He misses the free throw. He hits the second from the line. Lakers trail by four. LeBron passes to Vincent. Lakers passing it around against Shingun. Shot clock at six. Pass to Reeds. This one for three. LeBron shot is off. And even against defense as tight as that, you almost expect him to still very low. Gets the three-pointer to fall. Van Gle’s got the lead up to seven now for the Rockets. and he’s got a smooth stroke from long range. Van Glee doesn’t just hoist him up. His three-pointers are always going to be high quality shots. Here’s Vincent covered by Van Bleet. Vincent the bounce pass. And so it’s the Houston Rockets bringing the quarter to a close with a seven-point lead. They’re pounding the ball inside and that’s where they’ve gotten their best production tonight. And now let’s catch up. Seven-point differential. So the Lakers five right now. Luca Donic out there with Austin Reed. Then it’s Ruy Himura. Then it’s DeAndre 8. And it’s LeBron in the powerful. Here’s Whitmore by LeBron. and to Van Vleet outside KD. A chance to extend the lead to double digits, but it’s no good. LeBron outside. Tough shot in close by LeBron. And one of those players who will not be denied. LeBron so strong inside. Pass to KD. Good. And Van Glee gets the assist. KD’s got 25 points. Boy, a big man with great touch from deep always a valuable commodity in today’s game. Clark famously Brent Van Vuit was undrafted. Why do you think he was overlooked? Wow. I tell you, I think size, but man, when you look at his intangibles, it’s hard to not be impressed with what Fred Van Fleet has done. He is an incredible basketball player. Smart, tough, skilled, relentless. He’s had a great career as an undrafted player. Pass to Reeds. Back to Donic and Donic with the triple. Great offball action from Donic. Rockets leading by four outside Durant. Whitmore with it. He’s against Hashimura. Crafty move and it’s Whitmore missing. LA has gone two of two from long range in the third quarter so far and Fred Van Vleet is going to pick up a foul. That’s foul number two for him. Foul first team foul. [Music] And now around two minutes gone by in this half. Reeves outside pass to James. Excellent coverage from Durant. Able to guard multiple positions due to his size, athleticism, and length. Here’s Whitmore and the rejection by Eaton. James in the post, defended by Durant and foul on the shot. So he’ll get a chance at the line. This will make four trips to the line so far in the game. The line for the Lakers. LeBron James taking two shots. Shooting two. [Applause] Free throw good. LeBron. [Applause] No good on the second free throw. Pockets leading by three. It’s three on three on the fast break. Going up high. Kevin Durant. And such great feel for the game. What more knowing where his teammates are at all times. Pass to Hatchima. The three for Dunic. They get it again. Eighton goes up again and he lays it up and in. Eighton’s got eight points. And you got to love the big bucket in the paint. [Applause] [Applause] Three minutes gone now in the third quarter. [Music] Shenun with a screen on Reeves. Shingun no good. Lakers trail by three. Reeves outside. Eighton sets the pick for Reeves and they’re unable to get the time basket there. Just under three and a half minutes played here in the third quarter. They set the pick down low and Thompson gets it to go in on the assist from Van Gleet. Van Gleet’s got his ninth assist of the game now. Donic kicks to LeBron. Back to Donic and there’s the call on DeAndre. That is his first foul of the game. First personal foul. [Applause] Rockets leading by five. Outside KD. Two free throws coming up and they call the shooting foul. LeBron James. That’s on LeBron James. I don’t think you could design a better scorer than Durant. I mean, range from deep, the touch at the rim, excellent handling, 7 ft tall. He does everything you want from your first option. Free throw drops for KD. and they haven’t let points get away from them at the line tonight. That’s always something that’ll allow a coaching staff to breathe a little easier. Vanderbilt’s checked in for the Lakers. That one falls so he hits both of them. And among NBAs, he is known for his ability to deliver at the free throw line. Donic passes to Hatchimal. Back to Donic. Oh, Donic. Wow. Range way downtown. Dantic testing the limits of his range there. It’s Durant on the wing. Pass to Shenun. And here’s Thompson. He’s defended by Reed. Not quite enough defense that time around. Just lucky he was off. Aimura kicks to Donic. Misses the three. Houston leading by four. [Applause] Here’s Van Vleet. He has five. A shot that time. Not on target. Kimura with it. Guarded now by Durant. To the middle. Here’s Hatton. Anthony is a very efficient five for six on the game and a strong showing of physical strength there from a defenders have their hands full when he’s around the rim Van Vleet looking around. Here’s KD second shot opportunity tries yet again Durant going to work inside. I tell you what, that defense was physical and yet Durant with great balance and composure just stayed with it. Sets the pick for Donic. A three ball. It’s rebounded by Houston. Shingun’s got rebound number seven for him tonight. And then Durant with the T. And he can do a lot more damage to the rim than that when he wants to. Oh, you’re right. And with the lead they’re enjoying, I’m surprised he didn’t put a little something extra on that one. Well, I think he did plenty of damage nonetheless. I mean, it was only with one hand, but he still threw that down pretty hard. The ball distribution was there. I mean, outstanding work all the way around. And so Van Vleet will bring it up for the Rockies. They lead by four. [Music] Durant with a wideopen look and a miss there on the triple. Boy, I’m absolutely shocked he didn’t get that one to go. Usually he’s money from deep. And he could not get that one to go. Out of contact and he’ll go to the line for two. Clark, what is it about Austin Reeves style of play that makes him such a good scoreer. I love the fact that he can change pace with the dribble. You know, he’s not super fast, but he’s not slow either. What he is is shifty and smart. He’s got good size, good ball skills, and he’s got a nice mid-range jumper. All of that allows him to keep defenders off balance. Smith checked in for Amen Thompson. The Lakers also with a sub. Marcus Mars checked in for Hatchima. Good on both. Houston in the lead now. Whitmore. He’s got 10. And that one clearly a foul. Gets the whistle and two shots coming up. That one on eight. And when you watch Whitmore, he’s much bigger than your average wing. Creates a different type of matchup. And let’s quickly check out the scoring breakdown here for the Rockets. I’m in love with how they’re moving the basketball all game long and also their ability to move without the ball. That style just makes it so difficult to defend. Yeah, you know, the defense just hasn’t been able to keep up with them in this one. The transition game as a result of good defense has been very strong. And the second free throw good. Lakers trail by three. [Applause] Pass to Aton. Here’s Reeves. Guarded by KD. And a beautiful finish by Reeves. Reeves has got eight points. How about how he sets his man up there, runs him right into the screen, and then gets the basketball. Here’s Smith outside KD. Contact will not stop Durant. This is where Katie dips into his bag and comes out smelling good. Pass to Vanderbilt. Back to Donic. [Applause] Forcing his way inside. Donic. That’s the weight room strength of Donic right there. Fully displayed. Van Fleet passes to Shenu. Now Whitmore. Good. And there goes to Shenu. Shingun’s got three assists now in this one. Lakers trail by four outside. Smart. The three for Donic. Not giving it in. Donic. Boy, Dantic showing you his competitiveness right there with the back at you three. The revenge triple. Van Vlate passes to Shenu. Durant for three. And again, it’s the Rockets from deep. and an I for an I. Both teams working to stretch the floor. Nothing like answering back. One team gets three, you fire three of your own. Boom. Pass to Vanderbilt beyond the arc. Tries again. It’s rebounded by Shenun. Shenun’s got rebound number eight here tonight in the game. Now Smith Vanderbilt defending puts it up from 12 and it’s with the rebound. Lakers trail by four. And here is Donic. Yep, that one goes in there. Donic has got 28 points for the game. It always seems like Donic is playing with something to prove. Well, I tell you what, he’s proving plenty tonight. Pass to Shenun. Lets the three fly. Reeves with the rebound. Reeves has got four rebounds now tonight. Vanderbilt with it. Bitmore defending. Some nice passing here by Los Angeles. [Music] Here’s Donic. Can’t tie it up as that one misses. Here’s Katy and finished off by Katy. Oh, an aggressive move and fantastic finish. Trying to send a message with that slam. I think that’s exactly how you send it. Two hands and down. Donic feeling it out. And here’s Reeves outside. Good. And Smart gets the assist. Reeves has got 11 points. Sensational ball movement there. When you pass the ball like that, good things happen. Smith outside. [Music] There’s a minute 47 left in the third quarter. Just five to shoot. Corner shot and he wills that one in. Sinking right through off the back ice. What can they do? I mean that’s the question. Durant finds a shot he likes and the mechanics are efficient and tight. Practically a sure thing when he lets it fly. Here’s Dunic in close. Donic. Your hitch works well there. Not much resistance from the deep. Yeah, that’s not the defense you need. You got to be tougher defensively. Van Fleet against Smart. Pass to Shen. There’s the three. Lakers with the rebound on the wing. Donic. Whitmore defending. Here’s the floater. Donic. No good. The Rockets shooting 52% from the floor. Nice work so far from them. Smith the pass to Shangu misses the baby hook. The Lakers trad breeds keeps it alive. He hangs in there and cashes in on the second chance points. A great competitive game so far. And from the look of it, this one could go right down to the wire. outside KD. There’s 25 seconds left to play here in the third and stolen by Eaton. And no need to rush this. Let the clock run down. Yeah, don’t give them another possession here. Shenun against Donic. [Music] Vanderbilt. A screen on Shenun. And here’s Dodic from the arc. And we reach the end of the third quarter. Just a terrific game so far. Lakers on top up one. And we’re just moments away from the start of the fourth quarter. Stay with us. And a quick look now at the State Farm assist of the game. And he sliced the D. wide open with this feed. They had no chance to prevent that basket. Yeah, that’s just a brilliant read of the defense. I mean, it was also excellent anticipation of the movement of his teammates before the pass. Just great harmony on all sides. And with three quarters behind us, we start the fourth quarter. What is still anybody’s ball game, they’ve got Adams. Thompson is out there with Fred Vanleet. Then it’s Jabari Smith and it’s E in at the three. So that’s who’s on the floor for the Rockets. And what do you guys think so far about the offensive approach for Los Angeles? Well, I think they’ve been lethal from beyond the arc this game. No doubt about it. Hard to defend such spot-on shooting. And you can’t ignore how often they’ve been able to get to the free throw line. Getting a lot of points from the charity strike. And so he hits the technical free throw. Greg, what’s the key thing Fred Vanble brings to this offense? I feel like he’s really a centering presence, Kevin. The guys can look to him to call the play, to give them their orders and trust that he’s setting them up for success. Adams with the screen on Smart. And here’s Van Clee from the up and Adams with the slam. That gives him a double double in this one. 10 points and 10 rebounds. And the pick and roll delivers. Vanble making the right decision. Giving up the rock. Vanderbilt setting the pick for Smart. Pass to Donic and they double up. Donic. Smart against Van Fleet. Launches a three. Smart misses. Houston in the lead. Van Vleet outside. He’s in with it. Crops in the layup for two. Yeah, nothing too fancy. Just getting the job done when they need to make every possession count. Connect sets a screen for Duch. [Applause] First minute and a half of basketball play here in the fourth quarter. No good with the lane. Thompson gets to Adams. Van Vleet outside. Adams with the screen on Vanderbilt. Back to Adams. And Adams with the slam. And that play is tailor made for not many guys set a better screen and then the quick roll off it to get the finish. Pass to Donic over Thompson. Donic no good. Rockets lead by six. Smith dishes to Thompson. Van Vleet outside. Screen by Adams from outside the arc. And that’s good. Red Van Bleet for three. Van Gle’s got the lead up to nine now for Houston. For Los Angeles, they’ve gone 03 to start the fourth quart. And JJ Reick is called timeout. And clearly an important junction. Guys, JJ Reick’s message with his team was simple. Now, he asked for one thing, intensity. He said, “I need you to crank it up to 11 out there. That’s how we turn it around.” Back to you guys. Thanks, David. [Applause] Fourth quarter of playing. We’re about 2 and 1/2 minutes through it right now. And foul on the shot. He’ll shoot two at the free throw line. Really out of the right play defensively. If you can’t block, force them to the line. Yeah, exactly. Prevent the layup. Give them a little bump and then maybe they’ll think twice about coming into the lane next time. And if they don’t think about it, at least they might be distracted by your presence. The first free throw is good. [Applause] Hayes hits them both. And it’s Houston’s ball. They’re on a 10-2 run here. Thompson outside. Smith scanning the floor. Pass to Van Fleet. Six on the shot clock. Adams sets the pick for Van Fleet. And he can’t extend the lead to double digits. And Reeds has got the ball here for the Lakers. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] outside from past the arc. Nailed from three-point land. Donic has got 33. The defenders need to recognize the importance of staying on him as we get into crutch time. Adams finds Vanley back and Adams. Terrific assist and nice finish. Solid play all around. And you can always count on Vanble to make the right play. He doesn’t make too many bad decisions when he’s got the ball in his hands. Vanderbilt setting the pick for Donic. Pass to Hayes. Donic outside. Fires the three. Oh, and he almost had a four-point play right there. He’ll go to the line with a chance for three. side bandwid picks one up. Shooting for Los Angeles. Luca Donutic at the line for three. Three shots. Three shots. And that one misses Whitmore. He’s checked in for Houston. He’s off on the second. [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] And on his third shot, he finally gets it to fall. Pockets leading by five. Van Vleet with it. Smith outside. Back to Van Vleet. It’s good. the assist that time from Smith. Smith’s got three assists in the game. Here’s Reeves. [Applause] Inside, [Applause] here’s Donic. Burries a move about 10 ft away. 36 points for Luca Donuch. And that’s right in his wheelhouse looking to make an impact when it counts. You know, they want the ball in his hands here because they trust him to hit all the big shots. Hooked away. Here’s Whitmore. Van Vleet outside to the paint. Rebounded by the Lakers. Vanderbilt’s got six rebounds now in the game. And Jed passes to Reeds. jacks up a three, takes the bucket. Now he’s got five field goals, five for eight in the game. You love how each side has risen to the challenge throughout this one. Hey, defense is taking a back for the Rockets. Shenun’s checked in for Adams. Tory Een comes in for Fred Van Vleet. And it’s Durant in for Amen Thompson. The Lakers also changing it up. Aton comes in for Hayes and James subbed in for Vanderbilt. to the left side wing. [Applause] James finds Reeves. Back to James. Donic with it over Ridmore. And it’s Donic missing. Rockets have gone six of eight from the field in the fourth so far. It’s been a great start to this final quarter for them. Screen by Shangun and Shenun throws it down. Working that pick and roll action superbly. Shangun knows exactly where he needs to be. Reeves outside. LeBron against Smith over Smith. James. That shot missing. Excellent defense there from Smith. Rockets leading by four. And there’s Katy. That’s good on the assist by Smith. KD’s got 44. And so Donic will bring it up for Los Angeles. Reeves outside [Applause] to the inside. Here’s LeBlanc. Smooth finish inside by LeBron. Hey, I really like what I’m seeing from LeBron here tonight. Keeping it simple. He’s going to the hot hand, which is him. That’s pretty good. Reeves against KD. Pass to Whitmore. Spinx from three-point range. Whitmore’s got nine points now in just the second half. Now Donic over Bitmore and it’s Donic missing. Houston’s gone two and three in the fourth quarter from long range. Good shooting so far and it’s Whitmore missing. Lakers trail by seven. Reeves the pass to Donic. Lakers working the ball around now. Reeves again Smith outside. Shenun with the rebound. Shenun’s got rebound number 12. You’re already in the game. Een finds Smith. Shenun with the screen for KD. The jump shot from the baseline is right on target. Durant’s got 46 points. Boy, that mid-range J from KD can put people to sleep, boy. Tough to guard him at all three levels. Pass to connect. Breeze with a screen on East. Hangs home the trifecta. Pick works well there. Not much resistance from the D. Yeah, that’s not the defense you need. You got to be tougher defensive. Here’s Whitmore. Back to Durant. Now here’s Shenon. Six to shoot. Shenun with the screen for Whitmore. Tried to come right back with a three of his own, but it’s no good. KD against James. And the officials calling for a 3second violation. So for the Rockets, Thompson comes in for Smith and it’s Fred Van Vleet in for Jar Een. And Los Angeles making a change here as well. Hatchimz checked in. Houston leading by six. Now here’s Van Vleet for three. Durant good on the triple. KD’s got seven points for the quarter. No fear or hesitation from KD. He’s able to hit from anywhere. Reeves outside with a screen on top. LeBron left side shoots again. The Lakers. I tell you what, what a good thing that he showed up today because without him, this thing would already be over. Houston’s gone three and five from beyond the arc since the final quarter’s gotten underway. And we’ve got a timeout called from Eay Udoka. He has decided it’s the right time to talk. [Music] Let’s get Yeah. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] pass to Whitmore. Van Vleet against Donic. Van Vleet outside. Shot clock at five. Here’s Shenu. It’s hauled in by Los Angeles. Donic has got six rebounds now in the game. Donic converts right through the defense. Get used to seeing this folks. Donic taking the moment to head on and deliver it. Thompson outside. Now Shangun inside out to KD. Another miss by Houston. [Applause] And so Donic will bring it up for the Lakers. Reeves finds Donic. [Applause] 135 left in the fourth quarter. Takes the three. It’s rebounded by Houston. Shenun’s got rebound number 13 for him here tonight. To the middle over LeBron. The rebound by James. Lakers trail by five. Donic outside. [Applause] Oh, an easy two from Donic. No better guy to take the big shot. Luca completely unfazed. [Applause] Durant against James in the corner. It’s Van Vleet. The basket. Good off the assist from Durant. Great boys from Vanleet there. shrugging off the pressure and just taking that shot. And JJ Reick is called timeout. Coach clearly feeling the necessity to regroup with so much at stake here. [Applause] Here’s Donic. [Applause] Shoots over Van Clee and it’s hung on the rim but wouldn’t fall for it. And now they decide to foul intentionally. First personal foul. First team foul. [Applause] And that’s an intentional foul. Fifth personal foul. Second team foul at the line for your Rockets. Thompson. Two shots. And that hurts as he doesn’t get the first one to fall. Trying to focus now on the second. He’s able to hit the second one and that makes it a seven-point lead. And not as productive a trip as you would like, but they’re still in a pretty comfortable position. Here’s Donic. Money. Oh, and that cuts the lead to just five. You allow him to get that close, you deserve to get scored on. So, they foul intentionally. Second personal foul. 13 foul at the line for Houston. Prep taking two shots. Good on the first and that increases their lead to six. Second one is good. Both at the line. It’s a seven-point game. And as long as they can keep doing that kind of work at the foul line, this lead will be safe. Los Angeles calls timeout, they’re down by seven. Round of applause for your little [Applause] 27 seconds left in the game. Finds it. Reeves outside. And here’s James outside. He’s off on that one. [Applause] So, we see the Rockets get the win here. They didn’t make it easy on themselves or their families, but in the end, everyone satisfied. I mean, there were some times that that momentum shifted and and and especially early on, but let’s give this group a lot of credit for that stick tuitiveness in terms of finishing out and executing that game plan. And now we’ll go to David Aldridge who’s standing by with our player of the game. Take it away, David. Thanks very much. Here with Kevin Durant. It seems like even with some adversity thrown your way, you guys find a way. Well, we’re moving to basketball. you know, we just relying on each other and uh you know, we just
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