Rockets vs Lakers Game 6 NBA Pick: Houston Aims To Level The Series at 3-3 (May 1)

• The Rockets have trimmed the series deficit to 3-2 following consecutive wins in Games 4 and 5.
• Meanwhile, Los Angeles is determined to bounce back from two tough losses.
• These teams previously met on Apr. 29, with the Rockets claiming a 99-93 victory.

One of Friday’s NBA playoff matchups features the Houston Rockets hosting the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 6 of this first-round playoff series. Who has the edge in our Rockets vs Lakers pick?

Houston vs Los Angeles Game 6 Preview

After dropping the first three games, the Rockets have gotten back into the series and in a big way. Their 99-93 victory in Game 5 pulled them within 3-2, and they can even the series with another win on their home floor.

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Houston took a nine-point lead into the fourth before Los Angeles got within three points. However, Reed Sheppard knocked down a jumper and added a breakaway dunk with 2:20 to play to ice the game for the road team.

Jabari Smith led five double-digit scorers with 22 points and seven rebounds. Tari Eason chipped in with 18 points and five boards.

On the other side, LeBron James guided the offense with 25 points, including 17 in the second half. He also handed out seven assists. Austin Reeves returned from a nine-game injury absence and finished with 22 points, six assists, and four rebounds.

Can the Rockets stave off elimination once again, or will the Lakers finally close out the series?

Rockets vs Lakers Game 6 NBA Pick

Following consecutive wins, Houston enters this contest as a 3.5-point favorite. Here’s a look at what you need to know for both teams ahead of Game 6.

• The Rockets are 11-4 straight-up (SU) in their last 15 games.
• Houston is 6-12 ATS in its previous 18 contests against Western Conference opponents.
• The Lakers are 6-2 (SU) in their last eight outings.
• Los Angeles is 6-2 ATS in its previous eight matchups.

The Rockets have dropped nine of the previous 15 meetings in this series. Additionally, they have lost three of the last four home games against Los Angeles.

Heading into Game 4, OSB correctly predicted that Houston would extend the series despite being down 0-3. Now that this group has staved off elimination in back-to-back games, look for that trend to continue.