The Los Angeles Lakers began their post-Kobe Bryant era with a 120-114 win over the Houston Rockets in their season opener. In front of a capacity crowd at the Staples Center, Jordan Clarkson led the Lakers with 25 points nailing eight of his 12 field goal attempts, and making three key plays in the game’s final quarter. James Harden, in his first game as the Rockets’ starting point guard, finished with 34 points, 17 assists and eight rebounds. But it was not enough, as the Lakers inched past the Rockets for the win.
Miami begin on the offensive
Miami Heat began their season with a 108-96 win over Orlando Magic at the Amway Centre. The Heat took control of the game with a strong third quarter display, as Miami outscored Orlando 30-16 in the period to overcome a 53-50 halftime deficit. The Heat’s lead surged to 19 points in the fourth quarter to register an easy win in the end.
Boston Celtics survive scare
Boston Celtics edged past Brooklyn Nets 122-117 in their season opener. Jae Crowder scored 21 points for Boston to win the game after Celtics had nearly blown away a 23-point lead in the fourth quarter. Boston are touted to be one of the contenders in this year’s championship but, if their season opener is anything to go by, it will a tough run ahead for the Celtics.
Scores:
Indiana Pacers 130 beat Dallas Mavericks 121
Orlando Magic 96 lost to Miami Heat 108
Boston Celtics 122 beat Brooklyn Nets 117
Toronto Raptors 109 beat Detroit Pistons 91
Memphis Grizzlies 102 beat Minnesota Timberwolves 98
Milwaukee Bucks 96 beat Charlotte Hornets 107
New Orleans Pelicans 102 beat Denver Nuggets 107
Philadelphia 76ers 97 lost to Oklahoma City Thunder 103
Phoneix Suns 94 lost to Sacramento Kings 113
LA Lakers 120 beat Houston Rockets 114