NBA Western Conference Semifinals Schedule: Los Angeles Lakers Look to Get Back on Track, Host Houston Rockets in Pivotal Game 5

The Los Angeles Lakers appeared to be in the driver’s seat following news of Yao Ming’s broken foot yet they received a pounding at the hands of the Houston Rockets in Game 4 and now find themselves knotted at 2-2 in the best-of-seven Western Conference playoff series.

LA returns to their home court on Tuesday night where they will look to regain control of the series and with Yao out of the Rockets lineup the Lakers should be big favorites. While the Rockets stunned the Lakers in Game 1 in LA it’s a different series with Yao missing and Kobe Bryant will certainly be looking to take control early with drives to the bucket.

That’s on the offensive end but perhaps the Lakers biggest problem of the series has been what to do with Houston’s Aaron Brooks on the defensive end. The guard has torched LA with his speed and ability to score in bunches while finding the open man when doubled. Brooks was the catalyst behind the Game 4 win, scoring 34 points to make up for a 4-19 performance from Ron Artest.

LA will have to be more defensive minded in Game 5 after an embarrassing performance in Game 4. Despite having a clear advantage in size the Lakers were out-rebounded by the Rockets and if they give Houston second chance opportunities there is a good chance they will capitalize.

Outside of Kobe Bryant the Lakers only other player to truly step up has been Pau Gasol and that has been a problem as Houston’s defensive pressure has been able to neutralize a deep LA squad. If Houston can get another big offensive night from Shane Battier and Luis Scola and consistent play from Carl Landry and Kyle Lowry the Lakers could be in for another shock.

Tip-off is set for 10:30 p.m. ET.

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