Highlights: LA’s Error on Draft Day Returns to Torment Them
The Houston Rockets defeated the Lakers 135 to 119, a result that was undoubtedly far closer than the actual game. The Rockets had a 30-point lead at one point, mostly thanks to youngster Cam Whitmore’s spectacular run at the close of the first quarter.
The Lakers passed on Whitmore, who was chosen 20th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, in favor of Jalen Hood-Schifino, who hasn’t proven to be able to handle the intensity of competition in the NBA. Whitmore scored 12 points in the first quarter alone and finished with 18 points on 6-10 shooting. This features two incredible dunks that gave the Rockets a huge boost in momentum.
Anthony Davis had a strong offensive game for the Lakers, scoring 23 points, but his defense was shockingly weak, allowing Rockets center Alperen Sengun to score 31 points, grab 12 rebounds, and dish out seven assists. LeBron contributed 23 points, six rebounds, and ten assists on 9–15 shooting. But the Lakers were unable to participate in the game due to a poor performance from Austin Reaves and a somewhat off day from D’Angelo Russell.
It didn’t help that Jarred Vanderbilt was ejected from the game for pushing Dillon Brooks during the second quarter. Taurean Prince, who finished with five points in 25 minutes on 33% shooting from the field, took his spot and merely performed cardio.