Lakers vs Houston Rockets Regular Season Opener: Preview and Predictions

December 17, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) moves to the basket ahead of Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson (6) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
December 17, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) moves to the basket ahead of Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson (6) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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In their first game of the season, the Los Angeles Lakers will take on the Houston Rockets Wednesday night at STAPLES Center

After what felt like the longest offseason in NBA history, the regular season is finally here for your Los Angeles Lakers.

The team will immediately be in for a test as they take on James Harden and the Houston Rockets on Opening Night.

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The key storylines heading into this game is how Brandon Ingram will fair against Harden, as they are likely to matchup at least some point throughout the night, if D’Angelo Russell can carry over his strong play from the preseason into the regular season, and of course, if Luke Walton and the Purple and Gold can get their first win of the new era.

Despite losing a key piece of their core last season in Dwight Howard, the Rockets reloaded by picking up Nene, Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon. Expect to see a ton of threes tonight from both teams and hopefully a competitive game from the jump.

Houston Rockets at Los Angeles Lakers

Date: Wednesday, Oct. 26
Start Time: 7:30 p.m. PT
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Arena: STAPLES Center
TV Info: ESPN
Live Stream: NBA League Pass
Radio: Here

Injury Report

Los Angeles Lakers: Jose Calderon – Out (Calf)

Houston Rockets: Montrezl Harrell – Out (Personal), Patrick Beverley – Out (Knee)

Prediction

Los Angeles is bombarded by threes but show promise in their Home Opener eventually falling to the Rockets who are led by James Harden and his 30+ points.

Expect D’Angelo Russell to light it up starting off the season right with his first 20 point, 5 assist performance of the year, which will be the first of many.

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Be sure to check back with Lake Show Life after the game for post game analysis and updates!