Lakers in big trouble now that Rockets star Alperen Sengun has solved their complex puzzle
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The Houston Rockets have shifted momentum in their first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers , and much of that turnaround has centered on Alperen Sengun ’s evolving approach .
After dropping the first three games, Houston has responded with back-to-back wins, including a 99-93 victory in Game 5 on Wednesday night to cut the series deficit to 3-2. Sengun’s ability to adjust to the Lakers’ defensive schemes has been a key factor in the resurgence.
According to The Athletic’s William Guillory, Sengun acknowledged that Los Angeles ’ early defensive pressure forced him into rushed decisions during the opening games of the series. That approach has since changed as he has grown more comfortable reading coverages and controlling the pace in the post.
“We’re learning,” Sengun said. “Watching film, watching their defense. (We) kind of understand what they’re doing now.
“There’s no reason for me to rush the shot or attack the double-team. I’m just trying to pick them apart and find my teammates and find open shots. That was my job today.”
Over the last three games, Sengun is averaging 22 points, 10.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists while shooting 54.2 percent from the field. His ability to balance scoring with playmaking has helped stabilize Houston’s half-court offense, which struggled early in the series.
Alperen Sengun’s adjustments fuel Rockets’ momentum as Lakers search for answers
In Game 5, Sengun finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, along with two steals and a block in 43 minutes. While he committed five turnovers, his overall control and decision-making helped Houston maintain offensive rhythm against a defense that initially disrupted his impact.
The Rockets’ improved execution has extended beyond Sengun’s individual numbers. Their offensive flow has become more structured, with better spacing and more deliberate ball movement. That shift has made it more difficult for the Lakers to rely on aggressive double-teams and rotating defensive schemes.
For Los Angeles, the challenge now centers on recalibrating its defensive approach. The Lakers built their early series lead by forcing Sengun into uncomfortable situations, but those advantages have diminished as the Rockets’ center has adapted.
Houston will look to continue its momentum in Game 6 on Friday night at home, with tipoff scheduled for 6:30 p.m. PT on Prime Video. A win would even the series and set up a decisive Game 7.
As the series tightens, Sengun’s adjustments have emerged as a defining storyline. His ability to decipher and exploit the Lakers’ defensive strategy has transformed the matchup, leaving Los Angeles searching for answers at a critical point in the postseason.
Related: How Ime Udoka’s screaming Reed Sheppard demand became Rockets’ biggest Game 5 moment
Related: Who was the last NBA team to force Game 7 after facing 3-0 series deficit
