LeBron James delivered 28 points as the Los Angeles Lakers closed out their first-round playoff series against Houston with a 98-78 victory in Game Six. The defensive performance held the Rockets to a season-low point total, with LA using a 27-3 run in the first half to build an insurmountable lead that carried them into the next round.

Coach JJ Redick emphasized the team's resilience after being written off weeks ago. James highlighted the defensive execution that defined their victory. Rui Hachimura added 21 points, including five three-pointers, as the Lakers secured their spot in the Western Conference semifinals for the first time since 2023.

The Lakers advance to face the top-seeded Oklahoma Thunder in Game One on Tuesday in Oklahoma City. Meanwhile, RJ Barrett hit a winning three-pointer in overtime as the Toronto Raptors forced a Game Seven against Cleveland, extending their playoff series despite a 0-10 road record in Cleveland this postseason.