Rockets vs Lakers Preview: Do Rockets Force a Game 6?

Luka Doncic won't play Wednesday because of a left hamstring strain. When your best player sits out, the entire team shifts gears. LeBron James becomes the Lakers' offensive leader, which is fine because he's still dangerous. He's been playing smart basketball this season, distributing passes and staying efficient. Austin Reaves might return from his oblique injury, but nobody knows for sure. If Reaves plays, even on limited minutes, that gives Los Angeles more scoring options. Without Doncic's playmaking, the Lakers need their supporting cast to step up big.

Kevin Durant won't play either, sitting out his third straight game with an ankle sprain. That leaves Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson as Houston's main guys. Sengun is an All-Star center who can score inside and pass like a guard. Thompson is a wing defender who handles the ball and plays multiple positions. Without Durant, the Rockets need these two to dominate both ends of the court. The good news: Houston already beat Los Angeles once this series. They know they can win without their biggest star.

The Lakers lead the series three games to one, meaning Houston faces elimination. When you're down to your final chance, every possession counts double. Los Angeles has won at home this season, so the court advantage helps them. However, Houston's roster includes experienced players like Durant and Kevin Durant who've won championships. The Rockets proved they belong by taking Game 4 convincingly against Los Angeles. Tonight decides if this series ends or continues. Only one team survives Game 5.