KD or Not, Rockets Know What Has to Change in Game 2 vs Lakers

Hours before tipoff in Los Angeles, Kevin Durant remains listed as questionable- likely a true game-time decision- and Houston is still sitting in that uncomfortable middle ground.

If he plays, it’s hard to imagine he’s anywhere near 100-percent, meaning you’re not getting a full takeover version of Durant- you’re getting controlled bursts. Helpful, stabilizing, but not something you can blindly lean on for 40 minutes and pray for 30-point night.

If he sits, then there’s no excuse for the offense to look like it did in Game 1.

It has to run through Sengun. Not occasionally, consistently. He’s your best chance at creating structure, drawing attention, and generating clean looks. When the doubles come, the shooters have to be ready- not relocating late, not hesitating- in their spots, hands ready, decisions quick.

Because the shooting has to be better. It just does.

Houston got 7-for-7 from Eason, including two threes, and still struggled to find offense for most of the night. Meanwhile, Thompson, Smith Jr., and Sheppard combined to go 18-for-52 (less than 35-percent) from the floor. That’s not going to cut it. 

Defensively, the priorities are clear.

Kennard cannot get comfortable again- not after 27 on perfect rhythm shooting. They have to live in his jersey and make every look rushed or contested.

LeBron can’t be allowed to orchestrate early. Eight assists in the first quarter set the tone in Game 1, and he finished with 13. That’s complete control, not just production.

Ayton held it down inside too, going 8-for-10 with 19 and 11, and all three of the Lakers’ offensive boards. They didn’t get many second chances, but he made sure they got the ones that mattered. Houston has to stay sharp on the glass. One shot and out- no exceptions. 

No Reeves. No Doncic. There’s no reason this should look anything like Sunday night.

Game 2 is right there for Houston, if they actually clean it up.