The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the host Houston Rockets, 124-115, at Toyota Center on Saturday.

While Houston led by six points at the half, Los Angeles rode a 32-17 third quarter to take control. In fact, that allowed them to lead by at least seven points for the final 15 minutes of play. The Lakers ended up shooting 48 percent from the field while holding the Rockets to just 44 percent shooting. In addition, Los Angeles recorded five more assists than Houston while committing three fewer turnovers. Much of that can be attributed to the 13 steals and nine blocks recorded by the Lakers with the Rockets having just 12 combined.

The Lakers (34-9) were led by LeBron James, who tallied 31 points, five rebounds, 12 assists and two steals. Kyle Kuzma generated 23 points and eight rebounds. Danny Green totaled 21 points, five rebounds and four steals while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope led the bench with 20 points, three rebounds and four assists. JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard combined for 15 points, 18 rebounds and six blocks.

The Rockets (26-15) were led by Russell Westbrook and his 35 points, nine rebounds, seven assists and three steals. James Harden accumulated 34 points, six rebounds and seven assists. Clint Capela accrued eight points, 12 rebounds, three assists and three blocks. Eric Gordon led the bench with 13 points and three rebounds.

Both teams return to action on Monday, with Los Angeles traveling to face the Boston Celtics and Houston remaining home to play the Oklahoma City Thunder.