Both teams are looking to get some rhythm back as the Rockets have lost four of their last five, while the Lakers have dropped three of their last five.

Catch the game tomorrow at 9:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Houston Rockets (17-10, 9-8 AWAY)

Projected starting five:

  • Amen Thompson
  • Josh Okogie
  • Kevin Durant
  • Jabari Smith Jr.
  • Alperen Sengun

This road trip hasn’t been kind to the Rockets. They’ve dropped four of their last five games, with three coming in overtime, and the most recent one being a humbling 20-point rout at the hands of the 13-seed Clippers. Close losses still count the same in the standings, and Houston’s late-game execution has clearly become an issue that needs fixing fast. Whether it’s decision-making, shot selection, or defensive lapses, the Rockets haven’t been able to close when it matters most.

Still, this is far from a team in panic mode. The talent is obvious, starting with Alperen Sengun’s all-around brilliance, Amen Thompson’s athleticism and defensive impact, and Kevin Durant’s steady scoring presence. When those three are in sync, Houston can overwhelm opponents with size, skill, and versatility.

Against the Lakers, the Rockets will lean heavily on their physicality and defensive identity. They have the personnel to pressure the ball, attack mismatches, and make life uncomfortable for a Los Angeles team that has struggled defensively all season. If Houston can clean up the late-game mistakes, this matchup offers a real chance to reset the trip.

HOME: Los Angeles Lakers (19-9, 7-4 HOME)

Projected starting five:

  • Luka Doncic (day-to-day) / Gabe Vincent
  • Austin Reaves
  • Rui Hachimura
  • LeBron James
  • DeAndre Ayton

The Lakers are also searching for answers. They’ve lost three of their last five games and are coming off their first back-to-back losses of the season, capped by a 132-108 blowout loss to the Suns. Defense has been the glaring weakness throughout the year, and it showed again as rotations broke down and transition coverage fell apart. Fixing that end of the floor is quickly becoming priority number one.

Injuries haven’t helped. Luka Doncic is dealing with a calf issue and could miss another game, while Austin Reaves is still easing his way back in just his second game after injury. That puts even more responsibility on LeBron James, who, while able to flash his vintage play, is also just days away from turning 41 years old.

For the Lakers to steady themselves, the second-tier contributors must show up. DeAndre Ayton, Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, Jake LaRavia, and the rest of the supporting cast need to bring energy, defense, and timely scoring. Against a physical Rockets team, effort and focus may matter just as much as star power.

PICKS

Spread: Rockets (-2.5)
Over/Under: (230.5)