Amen Thompson stars as Rockets avoid elimination with convincing win against Lakers

Amen Thompson led the way with a game-high 23 points as the Houston Rockets kept their season alive with a commanding 115-96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series on Sunday night. Tari Eason added 20 points, while all five Houston starters reached double figures in a balanced offensive display. Reed Sheppard contributed 17 points, knocking down four three-pointers, while Alperen Sengun scored 19 and Jabari Smith Jr. chipped in 16. Eason and Smith also grabbed eight rebounds each as Houston managed without the injured Kevin Durant for a third straight game.


The Rockets set the tone defensively, forcing 24 turnovers that turned into 30 points. Their transition game was equally effective, producing 23 fast-break points while holding the Lakers to just 22.7 percent shooting from beyond the arc.


LeBron James struggled to find rhythm, finishing with 10 points and nine assists, while Marcus Smart added nine points. Deandre Ayton posted 19 points and 10 rebounds but was ejected in the third quarter after a flagrant foul.


Houston grabbed control late in the first quarter and steadily built its advantage. A strong second-quarter run helped them take a 56-47 lead into halftime, despite the Lakers shooting efficiently.

The Rockets dominated the third quarter, opening with a 12-4 surge to stretch the margin further. From there, they never looked back, leading by as many as 28 points.

Despite the loss, the Lakers still hold a 3-1 series lead heading into Game 5 in Los Angeles on Wednesday.