The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Houston Rockets 120-114 at Staples Center on Wednesday.
The Lakers (1-0) brought in Luke Walton as their new head coach for the 2016-2017 season, and the new offense that involved an expected volume shooting from the perimeter, was effective enough to aid Los Angeles to a good start. The Lakers took 35 shots from behind the arc and sank 12 of them, and the 34.3 percent efficiency was enough to constantly keep Los Angeles within striking distance. The Rockets led for most of the game, but never by a controlling amount. Jordan Clarkson drained a 29 foot three-pointer with 1:47 left in the fourth quarter to take 116-112 lead, and followed Nene’s banker with a quick two pointer to hold the lead at four points. D’Angelo Russell’s sloppy turnover with seconds left gave the Rockets a bit of life, but they were unable to capitalize and the Lakers ran out the clock.
James Harden was named point guard, and although his usage percentage was point guard-esque last season, the official designation was backed up by 17 assists. Harden made use of quick passes in transition and threaded the needle time and time again in the first half. The Rockets star player added 34 points and eight rebounds to his strong start to the season. Newly acquired Eric Gordon (19 points on 7-of-15 shooting) and Ryan Anderson (14 points on 6-of-15 shooting) were effective in the Harden led system. Clint Capela wasted no time taking Dwight Howard’s spot under center with 16 points and nine boards in 26 minutes.
Both teams hit the road on Friday, as the Rockets visit the Dallas Mavericks, while the Lakers visit the Utah Jazz.
