Rockets Lead Lakers Late in Second Quarter of Game 4 in Houston
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The Houston Rockets built a 48–40 advantage over the Los Angeles Lakers with 1:44 remaining in the second quarter on Sunday night at Toyota Center, looking to stave off elimination in their Western Conference first-round matchup.
Houston, which trails the best-of-seven series 3–0, is shooting 47 percent from the field and 33 percent from beyond the arc (5-for-15). Rookie guard Amen Thompson has eight points on 4-of-8 shooting, while Alperen Şengün has matched him with 10 points and four rebounds off the bench despite going 3-for-7 at the free-throw line.
The Lakers, also at 47 percent from the floor, have struggled from long distance, connecting on just one of six attempts. Center Deandre Ayton leads Los Angeles with 10 points and seven rebounds. Forward Rui Hachimura has added seven points, and veteran guard Marcus Smart has chipped in two.
Houston holds a 24-12 edge on the glass and has forced 13 Laker turnovers, although the Rockets have committed 10 miscues of their own. Both teams are already in the bonus late in the half.
Los Angeles entered Game 4 with a chance to complete a sweep after winning the first three contests by scores of 107-98, 112-94 and 108-104 in overtime. Game 5, if necessary, would shift back to Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday.
Source: ESPN
