Lakers Set For Important Matchup vs Rockets

The Los Angeles Lakers will begin a critical six-game road trip Monday night when they take on the Houston Rockets. The two teams come into the matchup separated by just half a game in the standings, but will play each other twice in three days.

Here is what to expect from tonight’s game, including how the Lakers can extend their five-game win streak.

Dealing with Houston’s Rebounding & Athleticism 

As expected, given the Rockets’ sheer size, they are the number one rebounding team in the league. The Lakers, meanwhile, are just 27th. If the Lakers want to win, they need all five guys on the floor to crash.

The Lakers also need to contain the Rockets’ high-level athletes. This includes Amen Thompson, a high-flying, versatile guard who ranks second in the NBA in minutes played per game. Los Angeles typically struggles against more athletic teams, but that will have to change tonight.

Hunting Matchups

Houston’s unique size also means finding the right matchups on offense is important. The Lakers should first look to keep Alperen Sengun busy.

Sengun, while an offensive threat, is a subpar defender and rim protector. Now, without Steven Adams to help him man the paint, he is even more vulnerable. This means Deandre Ayton has a chance for a big night. Sengun also comes into the night questionable with a back injury.

Reed Sheppard is also worth looking to target. Sheppard is one of the shorter players on the Rockets roster, so the Lakers should look to force him to guard Luka Doncic or Austin Reaves.

Wrap Up & Playoff Implications 

As mentioned, tonight’s matchup has major playoff seeding implications. The winner would see themselves as the 3 seed and would have the chance to give themselves some breathing room in their second matchup.

Tip-off in Houston is set for 6:30 PM on Peacock and Spectrum SportsNet.