Three takeaways on the Lakers

8 If there were questions whether the Lakers and the Rockets are contenders on the same level, consider those definitively answered. They are not. 8 LeBron James’ look- away three- point shot in the first half was just another memorable moment for him, and the kind of moment that showed the joy and connection with which the Lakers are playing. 8 The Lakers’ defense in the first quarter was superb, holding Houston to 14 points while disrupting the Rockets at every level of attack.