Lakers dominate Game 6, shut the door to set up Thunder showdown
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Los Angeles Lakers secured a 98-78 victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 6, clinching their first playoff series win since 2023 and advancing to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round.
- LeBron James led the Lakers with 28 points, delivering a dominant second-quarter performance that helped the team build a commanding lead, while Rui Hachimura contributed 21 points, exceeding his regular-season average.
- The Lakers showcased a complete team effort, emphasizing defense, ball control, and limiting second-chance opportunities, which stifled the Rockets' offense and led to a decisive 24-point turnaround in the middle portion of the game.
- The Rockets struggled offensively, shooting just 35 percent overall and 5-of-28 from three-point range, with key players underperforming, highlighting the need for offseason improvements despite Kevin Durant's absence.
- Austin Reaves bounced back with 15 points on efficient shooting in only his second postseason game, while the Lakers capitalized on their rest and preparation to deliver a decisive performance and close out the series.
