Home / Sports / Lakers Falter as Rockets Push Playoff Series to Houston
Lakers Falter as Rockets Push Playoff Series to Houston
2 May
Summary
- Jabari Smith Jr. fueled Rockets' Game 5 win, forcing a Game 6.
- Rockets aim to tie series at home after Smith Jr.'s bold statement.
- LeBron James questioned on his handling of playoff series closing.

Jabari Smith Jr. and the Houston Rockets have given LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers ample reason to secure their playoff series victory, yet the Lakers have struggled to close it out. The Rockets, overcoming their own injury concerns, notably with Kevin Durant, found themselves in a must-win situation.
Following a strong second-half performance in Game 5, the Rockets staved off elimination in Los Angeles, sending the series back to Houston for Game 6. Smith Jr.'s recent comments about his team's ability to tie the series underscore the mounting pressure.
While LeBron James has dismissed previous remarks about the Rockets being the 'better team,' the narrative suggests a need for a more personal approach to secure the series win. The Lakers' leader faces scrutiny for not yet powering his team to a first-round close-out, especially with key players potentially sidelined.
As Game 6 approaches in Houston on Friday night, all eyes will be on whether Jabari Smith Jr.'s confidence proves justified once again.