The Los Angeles Lakers are set to host the Houston Rockets tonight as they aim to lock in the No. 3 seed for the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Rockets have already secured the No. 2 seed, making tonight’s contest less critical for their standings.
The Lakers are looking to capitalize on home-court advantage as they fine-tune their lineup ahead of this pivotal matchup. However, the injury report poses key challenges for both teams as they approach a crucial regular season finale.
For the Rockets, center Alperen Sengun and forward Alperen are listed as questionable due to personal reasons. Additionally, Rockets’ players Smith Jr. and Jabari are questionable with left groin injuries and soreness, adding more uncertainty.
Houston’s forward Tate and guard Jae’Sean are both out due to issues with their right ankle and soreness. Fred VanVleet is also listed as questionable with right ankle soreness, further complicating the Rockets’ rotation.
Turning to the Lakers, LeBron James is listed as probable with a left groin strain. Maxi Kleber, recovering from right foot surgery, is confirmed to be out, forcing the Lakers to make key adjustments.
The injury updates come ahead of what will be the third and final regular season meeting between the Lakers and Rockets. The Rockets narrowly defeated the Lakers in their first encounter on January 5, with a close score of 115-119.
In their second meeting on March 31, the Lakers edged the Rockets 98-104 to claim a win. This final matchup promises to be a high-stakes battle as both teams look to finish the season strongly.
Currently, the Lakers are 6-4 in their last ten games, displaying solid performance as they head into this crucial stretch. The Rockets, on the other hand, hold a 7-3 record over their last ten contests, underscoring their consistency.
