Lakers vs. Rockets Game 5 Preview
The Los Angeles Lakers take on the Houston Rockets in Game 5 at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday. It’s the second potential close-out game for LA, but they are bringing reinforcements.
With that in mind, here are the keys for the purple and gold to finish the series.
Austin Reaves Returns
Austin Reaves is returning to the Lakers lineup after missing the last four weeks with a Grade 2 left oblique strain.
Prior to his injury, Reaves had a great season, averaging 23.3 points per game along with 4.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.1 steals. He shot 49 percent from the field and 36 percent from behind the arc.
The Lakers have struggled at times to have consistent scoring, and Reaves’ return will help that, even if he is on a minutes restriction.
Win The Rebound Battle
One of the keys to closing out the series over the physical Rockets is winning the rebound battle. Houston has a ton of size and athleticism, so it will take an all-around team effort in boxing out and crashing the glass to limit second-chance opportunities from the Rockets.
Limit Turnovers
The Lakers’ Game 4 loss was largely due to their turnover issues. They turned it over 23 times and will need to clean it up in Game 5 to finish up the series.
If they are able to beat Houston tonight, they will face the reigning champion, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the second round.
