Houston finished up their season series versus the Los Angeles Lakers late Wednesday. If you did not watch this game, congratulations, you, unlike me, did not get let down by this team as they once again get outclassed by a superstar late in the fourth.
To start the game, Houston used inside scoring (an early dunk and a free throw) to score first, and then Luka Dončić responded swiftly with playmaking and mid-range goals. The Lakers were led by LeBron James, and continued to score easily. Houston struggled to keep up with the Lakers as they made a few early mistakes on the defensive and offensive ends, as the Lakers shot 60% for the quarter.
After a poor start, the Houston Rockets responded with more vigor and physicality in the second quarter, demonstrating a noticeable improvement. Houston started to close the gap because of Jabari Smith Jr.‘s scoring touch and Amen Thompson’s aggressive rim-attacking style. The Rockets were successful on the glass, especially when it came to offensive rebounds that helped change momentum and produced worthwhile second-chance opportunities. But with the solid play of LeBron James, who continued to score effectively inside, and Luka Dončić, who led the offense, the Los Angeles Lakers were able to maintain control. The Lakers maintained their lead going into halftime by finishing the half strong with timely scoring, including a crucial basket by Austin Reaves, just as Houston tried to reduce the lead.
The Rockets reversed the trend in the third quarter, which was a pivotal moment. Houston tightened up their defense, making it harder for the Lakers to make easy jumpers in the half-court. The Rockets’ offensive strategy was balanced and fast-paced, with contributions from every position in the lineup supporting a significant run. They were able to erase the deficit and momentarily seize control thanks to their vigor on both ends, making the game a fiercely contested affair going into the final session. Houston even outscored the Lakers in the third, giving me the worst thing of all… hope.
The game ended in a back-and-forth fashion in the fourth quarter. While the Lakers relied on their stars to create in crucial situations, the Rockets continued to rely on their depth and physical play. In the end, Los Angeles’ execution and shot-making in the closing minutes proved to be the difference, as they were able to thwart Houston’s effort at a comeback thanks to key baskets and poise in dire circumstances.
Houston improved significantly from the game on Monday in a number of areas. Kevin Durant deserves praise for making an offensive statement, especially with a powerful third-quarter push that sparked the Rockets’ comeback attempt. Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson, who consistently scored goals and exerted energy throughout the game, should also be acknowledged for their output and overall influence. Houston never completely fell apart, but they also never succeeded in seizing control, so the frustration still exists. Rather, they played from behind all night, unable to turn the tide when it counted most. In the end, it felt like the Rockets were simply outmatched down the stretch, with no answer for Luka Dončić, who dictated the game when it counted.
Rockets will be back in action versus the red-hot Atlanta Hawks at Toyota center Friday with a 7:00 tip-off. As always, make sure to check back here at TheDreamShake for pre- and post-game coverage.