The Houston Rockets kept their playoff hopes alive with a hard-fought victory over the LA Lakers in Game 5, despite the return of Lakers star Austin Reaves from injury. The win forces a Game 6 in the series, shifting momentum back to Houston.
From the opening tip, the Rockets came out with intensity, knowing that a loss would end their season. They built an early lead and maintained pressure throughout, with key contributions from their starting lineup. The Lakers, fueled by Reaves's presence, mounted several comebacks but ultimately fell short in the closing minutes.
Reaves, who had missed the previous game due to injury, showed no rust, scoring efficiently and providing a spark for the Lakers. However, the Rockets' defense tightened in the fourth quarter, limiting second-chance points and forcing turnovers.
With the series now 3-2 in favor of the Lakers, Game 6 will be played in Houston, where the Rockets will look to tie the series and send it back to LA for a decisive Game 7.