When the noise level in the Crypto.com Arena reaches over 100 dB, you can often pinpoint the star responsible for it.
Was it Luka Doncic with a stunning three-pointer?
Or maybe LeBron James rocking the crowd with a spectacular slam?
Perhaps it was Austin Reaves showcasing a crossover that left a defender spinning, followed up by a fadeaway jumper?
But on Saturday, during Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs between the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers, the uproar was directed at someone unexpected—Luke Kennard.
Kennard is often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity, but when both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves were sidelined, the Lakers showcased a cohesive and formidable team.
In this playoff match, Kennard didn’t just play a pivotal role in the Lakers’ 107-98 victory; he completely altered the narrative of the series. Houston had anticipated facing a well-prepared LeBron and the supporting cast. But Kennard stepped up and a bit more than just filled in.
“That was my matchup, and he got ejected. I’ve got to be better than that,” lamented Rockets forward Armen Thompson, known for his defensive prowess, referring to his assignment guarding Kennard.
Kennard excelled, scoring 27 points with a flawless record from deep, marking a remarkable playoff debut where he joined the ranks as only the third player in Lakers franchise history to shoot 100% from three-point range on five attempts or more.
He also made history as the second-highest scorer in a Lakers playoff debut.
“I liked how he focused on shooting threes. He played a great basketball game,” said head coach JJ Reddick. “He was really aggressive tonight.”
While aggressive is an apt description, it’s a little simplistic. Kennard was not only aggressive; he was also remarkably decisive. This distinction matters in the playoffs. Aggression can lead to reckless play, whereas decision-making is about control.
For a Lakers team in search of an offensive identity, especially without their leading scorers over the last few weeks, Kennard provided the clarity they desperately needed.
The Lakers’ offense, led by Kennard and James, was methodical and efficient. They executed their game plan well and capitalized on the shots they created.
“I think we did very well,” Kennard mentioned post-game. “Throughout the entire game, we remained calm and organized.”
Kennard had to adjust quickly to his evolving role. Acquired in a trade earlier in the season, he initially came off the bench as a spot-up shooter. The front office had targeted him for his ability to score when defensive attention shifted to LeBron and Doncic.
But when Doncic went down due to injury, Kennard’s role transformed. He stepped into the starting point guard position, focusing on spacing the floor and facilitating for the stars without hindering their flow.
In his inaugural game as a starter, he recorded his first career triple-double, and by the playoff’s onset, he wasn’t just adapting; he was thriving.
“Honestly, I feel like I’ve developed a rhythm in this role,” Kennard said. “That gives me confidence going into the playoffs…just be aggressive.”
That confidence can be contagious, yet it’s also fragile.
While Kennard won’t hit every three-pointer consistently, the Rockets will undoubtedly adjust their strategy to counter him. Playoff basketball demands constant adaptations.
“Early in the first quarter, he was too comfortable, and that gave our team momentum,” Houston’s head coach Ime Udoka said regarding Kennard’s performance. “We have to prevent that.”
Fortunately for the Lakers, Kennard’s effectiveness doesn’t hinge on perfection. Staying confident, positive, and engaged is key.
“He kept the defense off balance tonight,” James remarked about Kennard.
Kennard creates tension for defenses. Help out on LeBron, and he can hit threes; guard Kennard, and LeBron has space to drive or collaborate with Deandre Ayton in the paint.
“He’s the No. 1 shooter in the NBA, and he’s proving it in the playoffs,” Ayton said. “Honestly, I was speechless tonight. Hitting those shots during the playoffs as a Laker? That’s pretty special.”
The Lakers traded for Kennard not to save their season but to bolster their depth. But injuries often reveal weaknesses in team designs.
In Game 1, Kennard not only fulfilled expectations; he revitalized the entire Lakers offense, demonstrating resilience without Doncic and Reaves.
For the Rockets, the issue isn’t just that Kennard scored 27 points. It’s that this version of Kennard combines control, aggression, and organization—qualities that could make him a lasting challenge throughout the series.
Because if he maintains this form, the Lakers might just have what it takes to progress. They’ve flipped the script.
And perhaps, they really did bring Kennard on board to save the season after all.
