Los Angeles Lakers vs Houston Rockets: Predictions for Game 1 of NBA Western Conference Semifinals

James Harden gets a crucial block to win the game for the Houston Rockets. As uncanny as it sounds, that is exactly how the Rockets won Game 7 against the Thunder. With this win, they have now set up a Conference Semifinals clash against the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Rockets had to sweat it out to win after the Thunder fumbled the last possession. The Lakers, on the other hand, were a lot more dominant. After losing the first game against the Blazers, they won four on the trot to finish the series early. While one team displayed dominance, the other barely scraped through.

But this Western Conference Semifinal promises some big matchups. Two of the best duos in the league go head to head as James Harden and Russell Westbrook take on Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

Can Houston Rockets keep up with the Los Angeles Lakers?

While Harden averaged almost 30 points per game in the series, he shot terribly. He averaged just 31% from the three-point line and he went 1/9 from three in Game 7. He cannot afford to repeat this poor shooting against a team like the Lakers.

The Rockets still have two former MVPs on their roster and a defensive juggernaut in Robert Covington. He is fearless and has been the anchor of their defense. In the playoffs so far, he is averaging 1.6 blocks and 2.4 steals per game. His ability to stop LeBron and AD will be a huge factor in the Rockets’ chances to advance.

The Rockets’ stars may have struggled, but the Lakers star duo was cruising in the first round. LeBron averaged 27 points per game while shooting a whopping 60% from the field, while AD averaged 29 points per game while shooting 57% from the field.

Despite all the Rockets offer, the Lakers look like the likely victors. They have form as well as fitness on their side. The Rockets took care of Davis in the previous game, but at the moment, he looks unstoppable and the Rockets don’t have anyone to match up to him. Finally, they have Playoff LeBron on their roster and he is showing no signs of stopping even at 35.

However, the Lakers cannot afford any complacency and take anything lightly. The Rockets will pounce on any error and the Lakers will have to ensure they are at their best to advance to the Conference Finals.