Rockets-Lakers Playoff Series: Can Houston Repeat as Western Conference Contenders?

The Rockets earned their spot and drew the Lakers in the first round. Houston has the momentum—Kevin Durant is healthy, and they're playing the brand of basketball that won them the regular season respect.

The Lakers? They're still trying to figure out their identity. Without a clear second star alongside their main scorer, can they compete against Houston's balanced approach?

This series could be a statement-maker for the Rockets' championship hopes. If they can dispatch the Lakers convincingly, they're looking at a very favorable path through the Western Conference bracket.