Lakers vs. Rockets NBA Playoffs preview: LeBron James and Kevin Durant, again

The stage is now set. The Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets will face off in the first round of the NBA playoffs in a matchup shaped as much by who’s unavailable as who is.For the Lakers, the burden tilts heavily toward LeBron James. With Luka Dončić (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique) sidelined due to injury, the offensive ecosystem narrows, forcing James into a familiar role as both creator and closer deep into his career. There’s also a reality hovering over all of it: This could be the final postseason run of James’ 23-year career.Advertisement