Kevin Durant took responsibility for the Rockets' loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, taking responsibility for their defeat due to his offensive performance, particularly in the second half. The Rockets scored only 35 points in total during the second period, including 12 in the fourth quarter. The Lakers' defensive performance made it easier for them, with Luka Doncic and LeBron James leading the scoring. The win extended their lead over the Rockets for third place in the Western Conference to 1.5 games. The only other player averaging at least 20 points per game for the Houston Rockets is Alperen Şengün, who was out due to injury.