Cold Lakers Lose Game 5, 99-93. Can They Rediscover Their Offense?

The Lakers came home for Game 5 Friday badly wanting to put their series against the Houston Rockets, and in the first quarter at least looked like they might get it done. But in the second... and for the rest of the game... the Lakers basically fell into the same patterns that defined the second half of Game 3, and all of Game 4. Momentum killing turnovers, a total lack of shotmaking, particularly from 3-point range. LeBron James found the range late, but it took a while to get there, and Austin Reaves was cold from everywhere but the free throw line after a reasonably quick start. And Luke Kennard disappeared entirely. After a strong opening games, Kennard has been a total non-factor. Marcus Smart hasn't been much better, particularly when it comes to turnovers. In short, the Lakers need to reset, and find the confidence that pushed them through the first three games. The next chance they'll have to do so is Friday in Houston. It's a big mental challenge, because the moment...