The Los Angeles Lakers enter their first-round matchup with the Houston Rockets as clear underdogs, a status driven by the injuries sidelining Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Guard Marcus Smart believes that disadvantage could also be a strategic edge.
“It’s going to take everybody,” Smart told reporters, noting Houston has never faced Los Angeles without its two injured starters. “They’ve always had a game plan for Luka and Austin. It’ll be interesting to see how they play us without them.”
Smart added that the short-handed roster will not back down. “They’re going to try to come in and punk us. I don’t think we have any guys who will be punked on this team,” he said.
LeBron and Bronny Set for Shared Postseason Minutes
With Reaves out, rookie guard Bronny James has secured a spot in head coach JJ Redick’s rotation, creating the possibility for on-court minutes alongside his father, LeBron James.
“Being on the floor with him is the best thing that’s ever happened to me in my career,” LeBron said. “He earned it, he deserves it, and he’ll be ready.”
Schedule Could Open Door for Returns
The playoff calendar offers at least one off day between games, giving Doncic and Reaves additional recovery time. Redick said the organization’s goal is to “make this season as long as possible so we can get those guys back at some point.”
Ayton Eyes Bigger Role
Center Deandre Ayton will make his first postseason appearance since 2023 and intends to elevate his production. “Running the floor and closing out possessions with rebounds and protecting the rim—just trying to enhance everything I can,” Ayton said.
Redick stated the Lakers reach an “elite” level when Ayton is consistent on both ends of the court.
The Lakers open the series against Houston later this week, looking to overcome injuries and upset the higher-seeded Rockets.
Source: Hoops Rumors
