Thrives in Expanded Role With 19 Points in Playoff-Clinching Victory

Luke Kennard made the most of an expanded role in Friday's 101-73 win over the Phoenix Suns, scoring 19 points after being cleared to play through a finger injury. Coach JJ Redick has shown increasing confidence in Kennard, utilizing him with more on-ball usage within the Lakers' rotation. His performance helped Los Angeles clinch home-court advantage for the first round of the playoffs as the team continues to adjust its lineup heading into the postseason without several stars.