Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction: Can Lakers Close Series In Game 5?
Updated July 9, 2026
The first round series between the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers shifts back to California for Game 5 on Wednesday night, with the Lakers holding a 3-1 series lead. After dropping Game 4 in Houston, Los Angeles now looks to close things out on its home floor, while Houston attempts to extend its season and build on the confidence gained from its 115-96 victory last time out. Here, I break down this contest from the West Coast and make my Rockets vs Lakers Game 5 prediction in the NBA playoffs.
The Los Angeles Lakers enter Game 5 with a chance to eliminate Houston, but Game 4 exposed some real concerns for LA. Los Angeles struggled badly with turnovers, committing 24 turnovers that led directly to 30 Rockets points. Their perimeter shooting also collapsed, hitting just 22.7% from beyond the arc in that loss. Even so, the Lakers still hold control of the series after winning the first three games.
A major development ahead of Game 5 is the expected return of Austin Reaves, who averaged 23.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds during the regular season. His presence should stabilize the Lakers’ offense and reduce the burden on LeBron James. Houston, meanwhile, continues to deal with the ankle injury of Kevin Durant, who has missed three of the first four games of this series, including Game 4.
Los Angeles Lakers
Houston Rockets
Game 4 showed Houston’s ability to dominate when forcing turnovers and pushing tempo, but replicating that on the road is far less likely. Los Angeles has been stronger at home all season and has covered the spread more consistently in that setting. With improved ball security and added offensive firepower from Reaves' return, the Lakers are in a favorable spot to close the series. I'll lay the points with the Lakers, as they should advance into the second round.
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