LeBron James takes responsibility: “Too many turnovers”

The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a major setback in Game 4 of their first-round NBA Playoffs series, getting blown out 115-96 by the Houston Rockets. A decisive loss that partially reopens the series, but doesn’t change the overall picture: JJ Redick’s team still leads 3-1 and will have its first match point at home in Game 5.

Taking full responsibility for the performance was, without hesitation, LeBron James. The four-time NBA champion endured one of his toughest postseason outings, finishing with just 10 points, 2-of-9 shooting, and eight turnovers.

It all started with me, no doubt. My turnovers were unacceptable

LeBron James

Strong words that perfectly capture an off night for the No. 23. After a manageable first half, with Los Angeles trailing by just nine, Houston shifted gears in the third quarter, dominating the stretch 34-18. During that span, James committed four turnovers and failed to find any offensive rhythm, contributing to the Lakers’ collapse.

Deandre Ayton’s ejection shifts the momentum

If there was a Laker capable of matching the Rockets’ energy, it was Deandre Ayton. The big man was putting together a solid performance before the moment that ultimately changed the game. Midway through the third quarter, Ayton was ejected after a flagrant 2 foul on Alperen Sengun, following a replay review.

The Lakers center disputed the decision:

We’re both players who sweat a lot. My arm just slipped off his shoulder. I’m not a dirty player and I’ve never played that way

Deandre Ayton

LeBron also defended his teammate, explaining that the contact was part of the physical nature of the play rather than intentional. Even Sengun admitted he didn’t expect an ejection:

Honestly, I didn’t think they would eject him. It seemed a bit harsh

LeBron James

Tensions rise late between Lakers and Rockets

Ayton’s ejection further ignited an already heated game. From that point on, five additional technical fouls were called, culminating in the ejections of Lakers rookie Adou Thiero and Aaron Holiday after a heated exchange.

LeBron didn’t hide his frustration:

It was an incomprehensible decision. I don’t think it was necessary at all

LeBron James

After the game, tensions remained high at midcourt, with players from both teams exchanging words. A fiery ending that adds even more intensity to an already heated series.

Lakers offense stalls

If defense wasn’t the main issue, as James pointed out, the Lakers’ offense clearly was.

Defense wasn’t our problem tonight. It was the offense

LeBron James

Despite the heavy loss, the Lakers remain firmly in control of the series. On Wednesday, they’ll have the chance to close it out at home and secure a spot in the second round, where a matchup with the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder could await.

Deandre Ayton has already sent a message ahead of the next game:

I can’t wait to get back on the court. We have to close the series at home. I love the intensity and competitiveness this matchup is showing

Deandre Ayton

A night to forget for Los Angeles. But in playoff series, what matters most is the ability to respond – and the Lakers will have the perfect opportunity to do just that.