NBA Playoffs: Rockets and Lakers Face Do-or-Die Games
As the NBA playoffs heat up, Wednesday is shaping up to be a pivotal day for both the Houston Rockets and the Los Angeles Lakers. It’s win or go home for these teams, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
First up, the Houston Rockets managed to stave off elimination by defeating the Golden State Warriors 131-116, forcing a Game 6. The Rockets came out firing, establishing a commanding 40-26 lead after the first quarter. Despite a late push from the Warriors’ bench, which cut the lead to 13 points with just over five minutes remaining, Houston held firm to secure the crucial victory.
Leading the charge for the Rockets was Fred VanVleet, who scored 26 points. Meanwhile, Amen Thompson delivered an impressive performance with 25 points and five steals. Thompson’s stat line was historic, as he became the first player to record 25 points, 5 steals, and 3 blocks in a playoff game since Charles Barkley achieved the feat in 1993.
On the Warriors’ side, Moses Moody led with 19 points, while Stephen Curry was held to just 13 points. This marked the fewest points Curry has scored in a series-clinching opportunity in his career. The series will continue with Game 6 on Friday at Chase Center.
Lakers Struggle in Fourth Quarters Against Timberwolves
In the other matchup, the Minnesota Timberwolves are riding high after a narrow 116-113 victory over the Lakers, thanks to a stellar 43-point performance from Anthony Edwards. The Timberwolves found themselves trailing 94-84 heading into the fourth quarter but managed to flip the script with a strong defensive effort, limiting the Lakers to just 19 points in the final frame.
The Lakers have consistently struggled in the fourth quarter throughout this series, being outscored in all four games by a combined total of 105-69. This trend has raised questions about their ability to close out games effectively.
In a bold move during Game 4, Lakers head coach JJ Redick opted to play the same five players for the entire second half: LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Dorian Finney-Smith. According to Elias Sports Bureau, this was the first time since the 1997-98 season that a team played only the same five players for an entire half in a playoff game.
- Can the Timberwolves close out the series against the Lakers?
- Will the Rockets continue their momentum against the Warriors in Game 6?
- How will the Lakers address their fourth-quarter woes?
These questions will be answered soon as the NBA playoffs continue to deliver thrilling action. Stay tuned for live updates and highlights as these teams battle for survival.
Originally Written by: ESPN staff
