LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 18
Alperen Şengün and the Houston Rockets faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs, with the Lakers relying heavily on their improved defense in the absence of star players Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Despite a strong performance from Şengün, who recorded 19 points and 11 rebounds, the Lakers held the Rockets to just 37.6% shooting. The Lakers’ defensive strategy targeted key players like Şengün and Amen Thompson, emphasizing physicality and effective contesting of shots. As the series progresses, adjustments from both teams will be crucial, particularly regarding the Rockets’ offensive rebounding and ball-handling tactics.
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