India, April 19 -- The 2026 NBA Playoffs commenced with high-intensity action on Saturday, April 18, as the league's top contenders looked to set the tone for the postseason. In a night defined by veteran brilliance and clinical execution, LeBron James reminded the world of his postseason pedigree, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a gritty victory over the Houston Rockets. Elsewhere, the defending champion Denver Nuggets and the New York Knicks utilised home-court advantage to secure vital Game 1 wins, while the Cleveland Cavaliers dominated their opener in Ohio.

Game 1 Scoreboard

LeBron James Powers Lakers To Gritty Opening Win

In the headline act at Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a 107-98 victory over a resilient H...