
Gibbs-White's hat-trick boosts Forest's survival hopes with win over Burnley
Gibbs-White's hat-trick secures vital win for Nottingham Forest against Burnley!
Luke Kennard led the Lakers to a surprising Game 1 victory over the Rockets, scoring 27 points. He received high praise from teammate Deandre Ayton after the game.
Mentioned in this story
The Los Angeles Lakers seemed to be in trouble after both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves were ruled out for the first round of the NBA Playoffs.
Those worries didn't last long, though, as the Lakers shocked many, defending their home floor against the Houston Rockets in Game 1 of the series.
Former Duke Blue Devil Luke Kennard was the star of the show, finishing with a game-high 27 points on 9-for-13 shooting and a perfect 5-for-5 from three-point range. He also added four rebounds and three assists.
Following the game, Kennard received a lofty endorsement from his current teammate, Deandre Ayton.
"He is the number one shooter in the NBA, so, you know, there's not much to say, but, you know, he's doing it in the playoffs where it really counts. My word is speechless to be honest," said Ayton.
Although Kennard didn't lead the league in made threes, he did lead the NBA in three-point percentage, sitting at 47.8% on the season.
Looking ahead to Game 2, Kennard and the shorthanded Lakers will hope to defend home court again and take an early 2-0 series advantage.
This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Luke Kennard receives special endorsement after Lakers huge Game 1 win
Luke Kennard scored a game-high 27 points, shooting 9-for-13 overall and 5-for-5 from three-point range.
Deandre Ayton, Kennard's teammate, gave him a strong endorsement following the game.
The Lakers secured a surprising victory against the Houston Rockets, despite concerns over missing players.

Gibbs-White's hat-trick secures vital win for Nottingham Forest against Burnley!
Cincinnati Reds look to sweep the Twins with Brady Singer on the mound!
Ryan Ward gets his first major league chance with the Dodgers!
Robert Kraft attempted to kill the story of Mike Vrabel's alleged affair with Dianna Russini.
Alaves coach hails Real Madrid as a top team before La Liga match
Tammy Abraham's late goal leads Aston Villa to a thrilling 4-3 win against Sunderland!
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.