Arabic version: ليبرون يقود ليكرز للفوز بينما يعاني ويمبانياما من ارتجاج

LeBron James shone as the Los Angeles Lakers took charge of their NBA play-off series against the Houston Rockets. Despite missing leading scorers Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, James showcased his skills, scoring 28 points, along with eight rebounds and seven assists, leading the Lakers to a 101-94 victory.

According to BBC News, the Lakers now lead 2-0 in the first round of the post-season. The Rockets will host the next two games in this best-of-seven series. Houston’s Kevin Durant returned to action after missing the opening game but struggled, turning the ball over nine times and scoring just three points in the second half.

In another game, Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs suffered a concussion during a match against the Portland Trail Blazers. The 7ft 4in rookie had scored five points before being injured midway through the second quarter, hitting his face on the floor after a drive to the basket. The Spurs confirmed he had entered the concussion protocol and would not return to the game.

The Trail Blazers leveled their series at 1-1, with Scoot Henderson scoring a game-high 31 points in a 106-103 win. NBA guidelines state that Wembanyama must remain inactive for at least 24 hours and cannot resume full participation for 48 hours. The Spurs had previously performed well during the regular season, winning 12 of the 18 games Wembanyama missed.

In the Eastern Conference, the Philadelphia 76ers bounced back from a disappointing game one to tie their series with the Boston Celtics. VJ Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey combined for 59 points in a 111-97 victory, with Edgecombe contributing 30 points. The 76ers will host the next two games against the Celtics.