The Los Angeles Lakers enter Game 5 of the Western Conference first-round series against the Houston Rockets holding a 3-1 lead, with Luke Kennard setting the tone ahead of Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena.
Speaking after Tuesday’s practice on Tuesday, April 28, Kennard described the team’s approach with a clear focus on preparation and recovery. “It’s been great. Getting some rest, getting our bodies right, minds right. Had a good day practicing today. We’re ready to go.”
The series has been defined by Houston’s defensive pressure, something Kennard directly addressed after film sessions and on-court adjustments. “They definitely picked up their physicality and aggression on the defensive end, caused us to turn the ball over and not get the best looks that we have been getting.”
He added that the Lakers focused on structural fixes during practice. “We talked about a few adjustments today, where we want to get the ball, get into our spots, and I thought it was a good day.”
Discipline and composure also became central themes for the veteran guard after the league fined him following Game 4. “Yeah, I always have my teammates back. Not much else to say than that. I got to be a little bit more composed and under control and can’t let the emotions get the best of me. No other comment on that.”
Kennard also emphasized the challenge of closing out a playoff series despite the 3-1 advantage. “It’s a long series. You don’t win the series until you get four games. We know that’s part of it. Just because you’re up doesn’t mean the series is over.”
Looking ahead to Game 5 at home, he stressed urgency. “We got to be desperate too. We know we’re coming back home to protect home court, which we did earlier in the series. That’s our main focus.”
He also reflected on the mental strain of playoff road environments. “It’s definitely on your mind to try to get it done on the road. It’s tough to play in the playoffs on the road.”
The Lakers lead the series despite being outscored by just one point across four games, a margin Kennard acknowledged. “We go back to last game, see what they did better and what we struggled on, and how can we adjust and be ready to go.”
Kennard also highlighted the impact of injured stars remaining engaged. “When you have some of your top guys out and some of the leaders of your team, they’re still around… it kind of lifts us up a little bit.”
As the Lakers aim to close out Houston, Kennard’s message remained consistent: adjust, stay composed, and finish the job at home.
