Lakers vs. Rockets Game 1 pick: NBA playoff picks, odds, bets

The injury-riddled Lakers will kick off their first round series against the Rockets on Saturday night in Los Angeles. 

With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves still sidelined, someone in LA’s backcourt is going to need to step up if they want any shot in this game – and series, for that matter. 

Enter Luke Kennard, who is playing a much different role of late than what he was originally acquired for before the NBA trade deadline in February. 

Kennard, who was traded from Hawks in exchange for Gabe Vincent and a 2032 second-round draft pick, is serving as the de facto starting point guard for the Lakers until Doncic and Reaves return. 

He’s given it his all without the pair, and the Lakers scoring will need to come from somewhere, even if they’re being given little shot in this series.

In four full games since Doncic went down earlier this month, Kennard is averaging 14.5 points per game.

He’s getting a ton of looks as well, putting up nearly 12 field goal attempts per game. 

Luke Kennard drives on John Konchar during the first half of the Lakers’ blowout win over the Jazz on April 12, 2026, in Los Angeles. AP

Aside from LeBron James, there’s few other ballhandlers on this Lakers roster, meaning Kennard should get some heavy minutes in this Rockets series, at least until Doncic and Reaves get back on the court. 

Houston has a tough defense, but they have a weak spot at point guard, where Reed Sheppard will likely see the bulk of the minutes. 

The points have to come from somewhere.

Betting on the NBA?

• Check out the best NBA betting sites
• Read our guide on how to bet on basketball

Look for Kennard to have another solid night for the Lakers.

The play: Luke Kennard to score more than 12.5 points (-110, FanDuel Sportsbook)

Why Trust New York Post Betting

Dylan Svoboda is a versatile writer and analyst across many sports. He’s particularly knowledgeable about the big three — MLB, the NFL and the NBA.