Lakers fans, relax ... unless this is an ‘80s flashback

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There is no reason for the Lakers to fear the Houston Rockets, even after losing Game 1 of the NBA second-round series. It’s not like the Rockets, led by a big center, have ever had a chance to cancel “Showtime.”

Well, except 1986, when Ralph Sampson nailed a last-second shot to upset the defending champion Lakers.

Or, 1981, when Moses Malone dominated the Lakers and Magic Johnson missed a key layup in the deciding game.

Both years the Lakers watched Boston Celtics beat the Rockets in the NBA finals.

But take heart, Laker fans, there is still a chance your team can meet the Celtics in June ... at a hotel bar in Aruba, judging by the way both teams played in Game 1 of their series Monday.

-- Chris Foster