Game Preview
The stage is set for an intriguing matchup as the Houston Rockets (22-12) host the Los Angeles Lakers (20-14) on Sunday night. Both teams have been playing at a high level recently, setting the scene for an entertaining battle.
The Rockets enter on the heels of a narrow loss, snapping a modest one-game skid. However, their season-long form has been impressive, winning nearly 65% of their games behind a potent 112.6 point per game attack. They've been particularly lethal from downtown, hovering around a 32.3% clip from deep. Defensively, Houston has clamped down, allowing just 106.4 points per contest while grabbing almost 49 rebounds per outing.
While the Rockets' recent 10-game stretch has been solid at 6-4, their last five outings have been a struggle, going just 2-3. Their scoring dipped to 107.2 points in that span, while their three-point shooting cooled to a 32.8% rate. Turnovers have been an issue lately as well, coughing up the rock nearly 13 times per game over the last 10 contests.
On the other side, the Lakers arrive riding a two-game win streak, fresh off an impressive 4-1 stretch. They've been firing on all cylinders offensively during this hot spell, pouring in 118 points per game on scorching 48.7% shooting and a robust 38.7% mark from long range. Their balanced attack has been on full display, dishing out 29.4 assists per contest while crashing the boards for 43.2 rebounds.
For the season, L.A. has been a shade below .500 at 20-14, but their recent surge has them playing with swagger. They've found their groove from the field, shooting a healthy 47.4% overall and 35.3% from deep. An area of concern has been their defensive lapses, surrendering 113.7 points per game, a number they'll need to tighten up against Houston's firepower.
With both teams riding momentum, Sunday's clash could come down to who can impose their style of play. The Rockets will look to control the tempo with their outside shooting, while the Lakers will try to pound the paint and crash the boards. Two potent offenses squaring off should provide an entertaining, high-scoring affair for fans. Buckle up for what could be a Western Conference thriller.