Overview
- The Lakers, who won 98-78 on Friday in Houston, clinched the series 4-2 for their first playoff series win since 2023 and set up a semifinal that opens Tuesday in Oklahoma City.
- LeBron James led the clincher with 28 points, eight assists and seven rebounds after pouring in 18 before halftime.
- Los Angeles smothered Houston, holding the Rockets to about 35% shooting and 5-for-28 from three while limiting itself to 11 turnovers.
- Rui Hachimura added 21 points on 5-of-7 from deep, Austin Reaves returned to the starting lineup with 15 points, and Deandre Ayton grabbed 16 rebounds.
- Houston’s rally from a 3-0 hole faded without Kevin Durant due to knee and ankle injuries, and the Lakers now draw a well-rested Thunder that swept the first round.