The Houston Rockets bounced back with a 115-96 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of their Western Conference first round series on Monday, April 27, 2026 (Philippine time), extending the series as the Lakers now lead 3-1.
Rockets Dominate Without Kevin Durant
Playing without star Kevin Durant, who missed his second straight game due to a sprained left ankle suffered in Game 2, the Rockets relied heavily on their starting lineup to fill the void. All five starters scored in double figures, led by Amen Thompson with 23 points. Tari Eason added 20 points, Alperen Sengun contributed 19, Reed Sheppard scored 17, and Jabari Smith Jr. chipped in 16 points.
Defense Key to Victory
The Rockets' stout defense forced 24 turnovers, which they converted into 30 points. The Lakers only had three players in double figures: Deandre Ayton with 19 points, Rui Hachimura with 13, and LeBron James with 10.
Other Playoff Results
In the West, the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 114-93 to take a 3-1 series lead. De'Aaron Fox scored 28 points, and Victor Wembanyama added 27 points after returning from concussion protocol.
In the East, the Boston Celtics crushed the Philadelphia 76ers 128-96 to also go up 3-1. Payton Pritchard scored a career playoff-high 32 points, and Jayson Tatum added 30 points. The Toronto Raptors edged the Cleveland Cavaliers 93-89 to tie their series at 2-2.
