Durant sidelined again. Can the Rockets replicate Sunday's blowout win against the Lakers, or will key injuries derail their playoff hopes?
On Wednesday, April 29th, the Houston Rockets are looking to stay alive in Los Angeles. They'll be without the help of Kevin Durant again, but hope to repeat the success of the Sunday night blowout.
When: Wednesday, April 29th @ 9:00 PM CT
Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
Where to watch: ESPN
Houston Rockets Injury Report:
Out: Steven Adams (Left Ankle Surgery Recovery)
Out: Fred VanVleet (Right Knee ACL Surgery Recovery)
Out: Kevin Durant (Left Ankle Sprain)
Los Angeles Lakers Injury Report:
Out: Luka Dončić (Left Hamstring Strain)
Questionable: Austin Reaves (Left Oblique Muscle Strain)
With Kevin Durant already ruled out for Game 5, the Rockets shouldn't be dealing with any surprises on their end. They know just what they have to work with, and after Sunday's victory, they might have a blueprint to get themselves another win.
Much to my surprise, Houston showed a lot of fight at home to avoid getting swept by this undermanned Lakers squad. They finally used their advantages in length and athleticism, as shown by the 23 turnovers mentioned on Roundtable.
With Luka and Reaves out, LA lacks the ball-handlers to deal with that level of pressure, and the Rockets have a host of players who can make life tough for opposing guards.
Austin Reaves remains questionable, which would undoubtedly complicate things for Houston, but I trust Amen Thompson locking him down if that were to be his primary matchup. Regardless of who suits up, the Rockets have a tough task on their hands if they want to extend their season.