Friday's game marks a rematch of a March 20 matchup in which the Lakers blew a double-digit lead as the Rockets closed with a 12-0 run to steal one from Kobe Bryant and the Lakers in a 107-104 Houston win.
This game also marked the beginning of a stretch of odd behavior for Lakers center Andrew Bynum, who was ejected from the contest.
The Lakers enter this game possibly playing their best basketball of the season, winners of four consecutive games and seven of their past 10.
Houston, on the other hand, has rotated wins and losses throughout its past six games, most recently coming off an impressive victory over the Chicago Bulls. Currently the Rockets have a grip on the No. 7 seed in the West but are only a game away from missing the playoffs altogether.
The two teams have split the two prior meetings in the season season, with both teams winning at home, so expect the energy to be high in this contest.
Here's a look at everything you need to know for Rockets vs. Lakers.
When: Friday, April 5 at 10:30 p.m. EDT
Where: Staples Center in Los Angeles
Watch: NBA TV, FSN Prime Ticket
Live Stream: NBA League Pass
Betting Line: Not available until tomorrow
Rockets' Key Injuries (Per Yahoo! Sports)
Day-to-Day: Kevin Martin (strained right shoulder)
Out: Kyle Lowry (bacterial infection)
Lakers' Key Injuries (Per Yahoo! Sports)
Day-to-Day: Kobe Bryant (bruised left shin), Andrew Bynum (sprained left ankle), Jordan Hill (sprained right MCL)
What They're ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
