In a pivotal Game 5, Deandre Ayton delivered a strong performance with 18 points and 17 rebounds, including ten on the offensive end, though the Lakers fell to the Rockets. After being ejected in Game 4, Ayton dominated the glass while adding two blocks. As the series shifts to Houston for Game 6, the Lakers will aim to close out the series and avoid a decisive Game 7, despite having initially jumped to a 3-0 series lead.