The Houston Rockets host the Los Angeles Lakers Friday, May 1, hoping to stave off elimination and force a Game 7 back in L.A.

James simply elevated his play like he has so many times over his illustrious 23-year NBA career, playing with a purpose and willing the Lakers to a 98-78 win over the Houston Rockets on Friday night at Toyota Center.

Game summary of the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets NBA game, final score 98-78, from May 1, 2026 on ESPN.

The Los Angeles Lakers advanced to the conference semis with a Game 6 win over the Rockets, and Marcus Smart credited Deandre Ayton's defense. The post Lakers Veteran Sounds off on Deandre Ayton After Game 6 Win appeared first on HEAVY.

The Rockets continue to crawl back into the playoff series by winning a second consecutive game. The Lakers continue to lead the series 3-2. Game 6 will be played in Houston. Jabari Smith Jr. led the Rockets with 22 points and seven rebounds. Tari Eason produced 18 points and five rebounds.

LeBron James and Kevin Durant, two legends of the game, shared an embrace after the Lakers closed out the Rockets in Game 6, 98-78.

Austin Reaves returned for the Lakers, but even the star guard’s presence didn’t stop the team’s offensive struggles. Their scoring woes continued during Wednesday’s Game 5 home loss to the Rockets, dropping back-to-back games,

LeBron James and LA can close out in Houston.

The Los Angeles Lakers get key Game 5 update as Luka Doncic nears return, but the timing creates a tougher reality for what comes next.