The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting Houston Rockets, 95-85, at Staples Center on Sunday,

While this wasn't necessarily a wire-to-wire win for the Lakers, they held the lead for the final 45 minutes. That can be attributed to a 27-15 first quarter in favor of the Lakers and a 27-20 second quarter. They actually got their lead up to 28 points at times, holding a double-digit lead for the entirety of the second half. In fact, the 10-point final margin was the closest it got in since midway through the second quarter. Los Angeles recorded 15 steals and nine blocks while winning the turnover battle, 25-12.

The Rockets (1-5) were led by Eric Gordon, providing 17 points, two rebounds and two assists off the bench. Christian Wood led the starters with 16 points, 13 rebounds and two assists. Kevin Porter Jr accrued 13 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals. Jalen Green amassed seven points, five rebounds and five assists.

The Lakers (4-3) were led by Carmelo Anthony, amassing 23 points, three rebounds, two steals and four blocks off the bench. Russell Westbrook led the starters with 20 points, eight rebounds and nine assists. Anthony Davis compiled 16 points, 13 rebounds and two assists, while LeBron James had 15 points, seven rebounds, eight assists and four steals.

These teams will actually have a rematch in Los Angeles on Tuesday for their next outing.