What channel is Lakers vs. Rockets on today? Time, TV schedule, live stream to watch Game 5 of NBA Playoffs series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The signs were pointing to a series sweep for the Lakers entering Game 4, but the Rockets laid that thought to rest in convincing fashion. Capped by a 34-18 third quarter, Houston cruised to a 19-point victory.

Still without Kevin Durant, the Rockets had a full team effort out of their starting five. Each starter averaged at least 16 points and Amen Thompson led the way with 23. The only Laker to reach 16 points was Deandre Ayton with 19.

Kevin Durant has still not been cleared by doctors after suffering a bone bruise that would sideline him for 2-3 weeks in season, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. If the Rockets are still without him in Game 5, the matchup remains uphill.

Game 5 will be the litmus test for the Rockets to determine whether their dominating performance in Game 4 was a fluke or a sign of things to come. The Lakers will try to put these shortfalls in the rearview mirror to clinch a series victory.

Here's what you need to know about Wednesday's matchup between Lakers and Rockets, including broadcast information and start time.

Lakers vs. Rockets Game 5 will be broadcast by ABC/ESPN and will stream live on the ESPN app.

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Game 5 of the NBA Playoffs series between Lakers and Rockets is set to tip off at 10:00 p.m. ET from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

Click here for the updated 2026 NBA Playoffs bracket from The Sporting News.

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