Kofi Inkoom
The day belonged to the Houston Rockets and Dillon Brooks, securing 128-94 a victory against LeBron James’ Los Angeles Lakers at the Toyota Arena.
Jalen Green stole the spotlight, delivering a remarkable performance with 28 points on 11-of-15 shooting, including 5-of-6 from beyond the arc, guiding the Rockets to a convincing 128-94 win.
The Rockets set the tone early, initiating an 8-0 run after Alperen Şengün’s reverse layup in the first quarter.
This strong start translated into a 32-19 lead as they entered the second quarter. By the 6:58 mark of the second period, another layup by Şengün extended the lead to 20 points.
Jalen Green’s impressive 18-point contribution in the first half played a pivotal role in the Rockets securing a comfortable 66-45 lead at halftime.
Alongside Green, four other players reached double figures for Houston, with Şengün notching 19 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, Jabari Smith Jr. adding a dozen points and six rebounds, and Jae’Sean Tate scoring 14 points off the bench.
LeBron James had a subdued night, recording 18 points and six rebounds in the Lakers’ loss. Rui Hachimura led the Lakers with 24 points, and D’Angelo Russell contributed 22 points.
Dillon Brooks forces a LeBron James turnover and he lets everyone hear it. pic.twitter.com/TaDK2rPWeX
— ClutchFans (@clutchfans) November 9, 2023
In a noteworthy development, Tari Eason made his season debut after missing the first six games due to a stress reaction in his left leg.
The second-year forward played 14 minutes off the bench, making an impact with nine points and nine rebounds in the triumphant outing.
Looking ahead, the Rockets are set to continue their seven-game homestand with the first In-Season Tournament against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night.