Why did Rockets avoid elimination again?

Rockets avoid elimination again and force Game 6

Houston staved off playoff elimination for a second straight game by beating the Los Angeles Lakers 99-93 in Game 5. After falling behind early and having their closer-out chances disappear, the Rockets leaned on production from Jabari Smith Jr. (22 points) and Tari Eason (18 points), while LeBron James still poured in 25 for the Lakers.

The win mattered because it flipped the series outlook from “closeout or bust” to “play on.” With the Rockets pulling themselves back after being down 3-0, forcing Game 6 gives Houston two more shots to complete the comeback and also keeps the pressure on the Lakers, who had a 3-1 series lead and a realistic path to advance.

Houston’s urgency showed in the closing possessions—tension stayed high throughout the physical contest, and the Rockets were able to keep control of the late momentum rather than surrender it like they had in earlier games. The result also set up a new phase of the series: Game 6 shifts the matchup from one team trying to finish the job to both sides trying to dictate the next swing of playoff momentum.

Key takeaways

• Houston’s stars delivered: Smith and Eason carried the scoring.
• LeBron’s impact wasn’t enough for Los Angeles to close.
• Series implication: Houston’s Game 6 ensures the Lakers don’t advance in the first round yet.