The Houston Rockets faced a disappointing 104-98 defeat against the Los Angeles Lakers, squandering an opportunity to solidify their playoff positioning. The loss, only their second in fourteen games, puts them at 49-27, still second in the Western Conference but now under pressure from the Lakers, who are 46-29, 2.5 games back. Houston struggled with their shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, making only 10 of their 32 attempts (31.3%). In contrast, the Lakers capitalized on their shooting, nailing 16 of 46 (34.8%).

In a game where Dorian Finney-Smith and Gabe Vincent combined for 12 three-pointers, the Rockets were left lamenting missed opportunities, particularly from Fred VanVleet, who missed 12 of his 14 shots. Houston's upcoming games against the Utah Jazz and Oklahoma City Thunder will be crucial as they aim to secure a playoff spot and possibly their first division title in five years.