Lakers vs Rockets Game 4 Preview: Lakers Go for Sweep
Lakers vs Rockets Game 4: Lakers Look to Close Out Series
The Los Angeles Lakers look to sweep the Houston Rockets in Game 4 tonight. They lead the series 3-0 in the first round of the 2025–2026 NBA Playoffs. The game will be played in Houston.
Los Angeles has stunned the Rockets this entire series. They have shut them down on both ends of the court. Whether Kevin Durant plays or not, it has not seemed to matter.
Offense Stepping Up Without Stars
The biggest concern coming into this matchup was scoring. The Lakers are without Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Many expected the offense to struggle.
That has not happened. There has been no issue putting the ball in the basket. Multiple players have stepped up and produced.
Luke Kennard Leading the Way
Luke Kennard is playing out of his mind this series. He has taken on a bigger offensive role. He is showing he is more than just a three-point shooter.
“I’ve gotten that a lot. … I understand it. … I’m definitely looking a little bit more, I think I need to with guys out” – Luke Kennard, who is averaging 25 pts in the series and shooting 17-of-26 (65.4%), on the calls for him to shoot even more pic.twitter.com/BJV5m2v2PO
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 23, 2026
Kennard can put the ball on the floor and create for himself. He is also making plays for others. He is averaging about 21 points, five rebounds, and close to four assists this series. His production has helped push the Lakers closer to eliminating Houston.
Marcus Smart Impacting Both Ends
Marcus Smart is another player stepping up. He is averaging 20 points, eight assists, and close to four steals per game in the series.
His impact goes beyond scoring. Smart is affecting the game on both ends of the court. His energy and defense have been key.
What to Watch in Game 4
Tonight is a great opportunity for Los Angeles to prove critics wrong. Many believed this team could not win without Dončić and Reaves. That has not been the case.
I kept receipts. pic.twitter.com/h3JPkwytLw
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) April 26, 2026
To close the series, the Lakers must stay locked in defensively. They need to mix coverages and keep Houston uncomfortable. If Kennard and Smart continue to support LeBron James, it will be tough for the Rockets to compete.
