Rockets rout Lakers 115-96 in Game 4 to avoid playoff elimination

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 115–96 in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series, avoiding elimination despite missing Kevin Durant with an ankle injury. Amen Thompson led Houston with 23 points, Tari Eason added 20, and the entire starting lineup scored at least 16 points in a balanced offensive effort; the Lakers' LeBron James struggled with just 10 points on poor shooting and eight turnovers, while DeAndre Ayton's ejection for a flagrant foul in the third quarter further hindered Los Angeles' comeback chances. The reporting, credited to AP's Kristie Rieken and published by NBC Los Angeles, provides specific game statistics, quarter-by-quarter scoring runs, and context about Durant's injury status and the Lakers' cold shooting from three-point range. Corroborating coverage from AP, USA Today, and Houston Chronicle confirms the final score and key performance metrics. Game 5 is scheduled for Wednesday in Los Angeles, where the Lakers will attempt to close out the series while the Rockets fight to force a Game 6.