Rockets Force Game 5 with Victory Over Lakers, Ayton Ejected

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 115-96 in Game 4 of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, avoiding a series sweep. Los Angeles center Deandre Ayton recorded a team-high 19 points on 9-of-12 shooting before officials ejected him with 5:41 remaining in the third quarter.

Ayton received a flagrant 2 foul after his left elbow made contact with the face of Rockets center Alperen Sengun. This marked Ayton's first career ejection in his 519th NBA game. No other Laker scored more than 13 points in the contest. Los Angeles committed 24 turnovers and shot 5-of-22 from three-point range.

The Rockets' victory reduces the Lakers' series lead to 3-1. Game 5 will take place in Los Angeles on Wednesday night, presenting another opportunity for the Lakers to advance to the Western Conference Semifinals.