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Marcus Smart makes Lakers history with Game 2 brilliance vs. Rockets
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- Marcus Smart makes Lakers history with Game 2 brilliance vs. Rockets
Marcus Smart makes Lakers history with Game 2 brilliance vs. Rockets appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
No need to rush your return, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves . Marcus Smart is here to stand on business for the Los Angeles Lakers .
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Smart helped the Lakers take a 2-0 lead in their first-round series against the Houston Rockets on Tuesday after pulling off the win, 101-94, in Game 2 at Crypto.com Arena.
Smart had his fingerprints all over the game, finishing with 25 points, two rebounds, seven assists, and five steals in 35 minutes. He shot 8-of-13 from the field, including 5-of-7 from beyond the arc.
He was two points shy of tying his career-high in the playoffs, which he set in 2017 when he was with the Boston Celtics .
Smart achieved a different milestone for the Lakers. According to StatMuse, he became the first player in franchise history with at least five three-pointers and five steals in a single game in the playoffs.
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The former Defensive Player of the Year was not the only one who was impressive for the Purple and Gold in Game 2. LeBron James had 28 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while Luke Kennard added 23 points, six rebounds, and three assists.
Game 3 moves to Houston on Friday.
The 32-year-old Smart has been the perfect addition for the Lakers this season, providing spunk, toughness, and doggedness in the backcourt. He had a slow start, but he eventually secured his starting spot in coach JJ Redick ’s rotation.
Smart, who recently blasted the haters , was reviled by the people of Los Angeles when he was still with the Celtics. Now, he is serenaded by loud cheers whenever he steps on the hardwood.
Related: Ime Udoka reveals head-scratching reason for playing Reed Sheppard only 10 minutes in Game 2
Related: 3 Rockets most to blame for pathetic Game 2 loss to Lakers even with Kevin Durant back
