The Lakers have a tall task in front of them, trying to beat the Rockets with their biggest stars, Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, out indefinitely. With Luka dealing with a hamstring strain and Reaves out with a Grade 2 oblique strain, the team doesn’t expect either to be available for the first round.

Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are out, but everyone else is available for the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 1 against the Houston Rockets.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick believes he may know how to beat the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA playoffs.

While the injury-riddled Los Angeles Lakers brace for a tough first-round showdown with the Houston Rockets, head coach JJ Redick isn’t coaching for his job- at least not according to those inside the building.

LeBron James has a major decision to make with the Los Angeles Lakers, which could impact their rookie's future success.

The Rockets will have to pay special attention to the rim defensively to slow down the Lakers.

While the starting backcourt is trying to return during the first round of the playoffs, coach JJ Redick and team work hard to prepare for Rockets.

LeBron has consistently said he hasn't decided what is next, but walking away is a real possiblity in latest report.

NBA playoffs picks, predictions, odds, TV channel, how to watch, stream Houston Rockets vs Los Angeles Lakers NBA playoff game on April 18, 2026.

JJ Redick says he trusts Bronny James in the playoffs. But can the Lakers afford to find out?