Lakers miss another closeout chance as Rockets force Game 6

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 99-93 on Wednesday to force a Game 6 in their Western Conference playoff series, which returns to Houston on Friday. Jabari Smith Jr. led the Rockets with 22 points, hitting 4 of 9 three-pointers, while Alperen Şengün contributed 14 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. A late run by Reed Sheppard — including a pull-up shot, a steal from LeBron James, and a dunk — proved decisive in securing the win after James briefly cut the deficit to three points.