Lakers face Rockets in playoffs

The Lakers will have to navigate the series without key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, both of whom are sidelined with significant strains.

Coach JJ Redick has emphasized that the team must rely on its depth and the dominant interior presence of Deandre Ayton.

Fans have accused the league of favoring the Lakers with a spaced-out schedule that allows their aging stars more recovery time.

Despite the injuries, the star power on both sides ensures that this will be one of the most-watched series of the opening round.