The Houston Rockets extended their first round series against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday with a crucial 99-93 Game 5 victory.
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Los Angeles benefited from home court advantage early with a strong first quarter in which they went up by as mans as 11 points. That lead was short-lived as turnovers became a serious problem for the Lakers.
Despite still missing Kevin Durant, the Rockets shot efficiently to dissolve the deficit quickly. They kept the momentum going and took a lead in the second quarter.
By halftime, Houston was ahead by four.
In the third quarter, both sides went cold on the offensive end, but Houston’s ball movement was superior and the Rockets managed to outscore the Lakers by five in the third frame.
The fourth quarter had a slow start until LeBron James and the Lakers came alive in clutch time. Strong play on both ends led to an 11-1 Lakers run with three minutes left to play.
Reed Sheppard responded quickly with a mid-range jumper and a fastbreak dunk to go back up by seven. In the final few minutes, the Lakers were called for several critical fouls. The Rockets sank their free throws down the stretch to remain in front for the victory.
Jabari Smith Jr. led the way for Houston with 22 points and seven rebounds.
For the Lakers, James finished with 25 points and seven assists.
The series now heads back to Houston as the Rockets look to become the first team in NBA history to complete a 3-0 comeback.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
