Lakers dominate Rockets in Game 6 victory, advancing in playoffs
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Houston Rockets 98-78 in Game 6 to win their first playoff series in three years. Led by LeBron James' 28 points and dominant defense, the Lakers advanced to the second round of the NBA playoffs. They will face the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, beginning Tuesday in Oklahoma City.
- ▪The Lakers held the Rockets to just 78 points, the fewest they've allowed in a playoff game since 2012.
- ▪LeBron James recorded a team-high plus-26 rating with 28 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds.
- ▪The Lakers outperformed the Rockets in offensive rebounding (15-8) and turnovers (14-11), reversing earlier series trends.
- ▪Houston shot only 35% from the field, their worst performance in the series and the Lakers' best defensive showing since 2023.
- ▪The Lakers went on a 27-3 run in the first half to turn a deficit into a 19-point lead, setting the tone for the game.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
NBA Lakers’ dominate Rockets in Game 6 victory, advancing in playoffs By Khobi Price Published May 2, 2026, 12:26 a.m. ET HOUSTON — JJ Redick said the Lakers would need to “kill” the Rockets to close out their first round playoff series. And on Friday night at Toyota Center, the Lakers accomplished their goal, suffocating the Rockets’ offense to a permanent end of their season en route to a 98-78 victory in Game 6 of the best-of-seven series, advancing to a second round matchup against the Thunder. The Lakers didn’t have it going offensively, either. 4 JJ Redick said the Lakers would need to “kill” the Rockets to close out their first round playoff series. NBAE via Getty Images 4 The Lakers didn’t have it going offensively, either.
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