The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a tough first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets, particularly challenging due to injuries to key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Coach JJ Redick has identified rebounding and limiting turnovers as the two most critical factors for the Lakers to secure a victory. In a recent practice, Redick highlighted the need for the team to focus on boxing out and taking care of the basketball, stating, "That’s the series." The Rockets ranked first in overall rebounding percentage and second in second-chance points during the regular season, while the Lakers struggled, finishing 12th in rebounding. Additionally, the Lakers' turnover issues were evident when they lost to the Rockets 119-96 on Christmas Day, where they allowed 23 points off 16 turnovers. The Lakers will need to improve in these areas to compete effectively in the playoffs, with Game 1 set for Saturday at 5:30 p.m. Pacific time.