The Los Angeles Lakers delivered a gripping performance against the Houston Rockets, securing a 104-98 victory at Crypto.com Arena. After a sluggish first quarter, the Lakers rallied, spurred by strong contributions from bench players Gabe Vincent and Dorian Finney-Smith. The game saw a mix of slow starts and thrilling plays, including Vincent's pivotal corner three that shifted momentum. LeBron James, though not the top scorer, was instrumental in crucial moments. The Lakers' defense improved significantly, a necessary adjustment as they gear up for the playoffs. As they look ahead, the integration and performance of their bench players, especially in high-pressure situations, will be vital for any championship aspirations.