Sengun told reporters after practice that the video, which showed him briefly fiddling with an object in his pocket as James passed, was misinterpreted. “I just saw that video today. It’s kind of funny, I was just trying to get something out of my pocket,” he said, adding there was no disrespect toward LeBron and that he respects him.
The incident became a talking point as the teams prepared for the series opener, with social media and fans guessing about the intent behind Sengun’s movement on the sideline.
In Game 1, Sengun played 36 minutes and finished with 19 points, eight rebounds and six assists on 6-19 shooting and 7-9 from three. LeBron James logged 38 minutes, scoring 19 on 9-15 shooting while adding 13 assists and two rebounds in a near triple-double effort.
The Lakers received a big scoring boost from Luke Kennard, who poured in 27 points in 38 minutes on five three-pointers, helping Los Angeles to a 107-98 win and a 1-0 series lead.
Heading into the series, Houston was viewed by some as the favorite due to perceived Lakers absences and other factors, though the Rockets were also dealing with Kevin Durant’s absence as part of the broader playoff narrative.
Game 2 is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, with Sengun again stepping into a key matchup against LeBron as Houston aims to rebound and even the series.
