The Rockets Spoil James’ Home Debut, Win 124-115

by
Former Writers
October 22, 2018

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It was a playoff atmosphere Saturday night at the Staples Center. The Houston Rockets spoiled Lebron James’ home debut as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Rockets won 124-115 win in a hard fought contest. Reigning MVP James Harden led all scorers with 36 points.

James finished with 24 points 5 rebounds and 5 assists. The Lakers struggled from three point range once again, shooting 8-32 (25%) on the night. This is a potential playoff preview in the Western Conference and both teams played with high energy.

LeBron’s Home Debut Also Had Some Fireworks

This matchup was well beyond just any regular season showdown. The intensity and competition were very high. As a result of that, it led to the bigger story of the night. It led to a fight between Chris Paul, Rajon Rondo, and Brandon Ingram. Before things escalated, Paul claimed that Rondo spit in his face.

However, Rondo has never been the type of guy to back down from any challenge. Rondo and Paul were swinging back and forth and Ingram came in from behind and sucker punched Paul. As a result, Ingram has been suspended 4 games, Rondo for 3 games, and Paul for 2 games.

Brandon Ingram initially pushes Harden, CP3 and Rondo exchange words, CP3 pokes Rondo and then the punches are thrown. pic.twitter.com/diyxpcKVHi

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) October 21, 2018

Player of the Game: Lonzo Ball

Above all, Lonzo Ball had himself an impressive game on Saturday night. Ball finished with a 14 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Besides that, he also shot the ball well from three point range, shooting 4-8 from downtown (50%). As a result of the expectations that are on his shoulders, Ball is under immense pressure this season.

Basically, It’s time for him to show he is the point guard of the future. Ball will be starting the next couple of games while rondo is suspended. He also can help his cause with solid performances in the upcoming games. If Ball can solidify his spot as the starting point guard for this team, the Lakers will be thrilled.

Lonzo Ball responds with back to back threes after the air ball. pic.twitter.com/WncT5O6KaE

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) October 21, 2018

With James’ Home Debut Now In Rear View Mirror, What’s Next For The Lakers?

It’s no secret the Lakers were bound to get off to a slow start. The Lakers play the San Antonio Spurs at home Monday, then they have a back to back against the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets. Missing two key pieces these upcoming games will hurt the Lakers chances. With their upcoming opponents showing early promise, the Lakers could be looking at an 0-5 start. A start like that would raise a lot of questions about this team including Luke Walton’s future with the Lakers.

Lastly, I do not expect the Lakers to start 0-5. I can see them beating the Spurs and Suns. The Nuggets are always a tough task and being on a back to back, I do not see the Lakers coming out on top. Lakers’ fans let’s all take a deep breath. Everything is going to be just fine.