Los Angeles Lakers vs Houston Rockets Prediction: Lakers Seek Sweep In Game 4
Updated July 9, 2026
The Los Angeles Lakers are one win away from a commanding first-round sweep as they head into Game 4 against the Houston Rockets on Sunday night. What makes this series remarkable is that Los Angeles has built a 3-0 lead despite missing key contributors, leaning heavily on veteran leadership and timely scoring from unlikely sources. Houston finds itself in a desperate position, battling injuries and searching for answers after letting multiple close games slip away. Before tip-off from Houston, continue reading to get my Lakers vs Rockets Game 4 prediction.
The Los Angeles Lakers have flipped expectations in this series. Entering as underdogs due to injuries, they have instead won all three games, including a 112-108 overtime win in Game 3. That victory highlighted their composure, with clutch shooting late and a strong extra period sealing the result. Los Angeles has now beaten Houston three straight times in this series, each by staying disciplined in late-game situations.
Houston’s biggest issue has been availability. Kevin Durant has been sidelined in two of the first three games with an ankle injury, and his absence has left a scoring gap that has proven difficult to fill. The Rockets have still generated strong individual performances, but their inability to close games has defined the series. With elimination looming, urgency should be at its highest level, especially on their home floor, where they were dominant during the regular season.
Houston Rockets
Los Angeles Lakers
My projections make this another tightly contested game. Houston’s home court advantage and sense of urgency cannot be ignored, but the Lakers have repeatedly shown they are the more composed team late in games. Even without key players, Los Angeles has found consistent production from multiple contributors while maintaining defensive discipline.
My confidence level for this game is low, as we don't know what Kevin Durant's status will ultimately be. But I lean toward the Lakers covering the spread as an underdog and winning outright to earn a trip to the second round of the playoffs.
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