NBA playoffs wrap 2019: Rockets close out Jazz; Clippers hold off Warriors

Ameer Tyree

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NBA playoffs wrap 2019: Rockets close out Jazz; Clippers hold off Warriors image

Houston is advancing to the Western Conference semifinals.

The Rockets closed out their first-round series against the Jazz with a 100-93 victory on Wednesday in Game 5 at the Toyota Center.

James Harden led Houston with 26 points and made a key defensive play down the stretch.

Royce O'Neale was an unlikely star for Utah, leading the team with 18 points.

The Rockets will face the winner of the Warriors-Clippers series next.

Meanwhile, the Clippers fought off elimination and got a second win in Oracle Arena on Wednesday.

Los Angeles secured a 129-121 victory in Game 5. Golden State still holds a 3-2 lead, though.

Lou Williams proved how dominant he can be in the clutch, scoring 33 points on 12-of-19 shooting. He hit some important shots in the fourth quarter to keep the Clippers in front.

Kevin Durant posted a game-high 45 points in the Warriors' loss.

Now, Golden State will travel to Los Angeles for Game 6 as the Clippers try to force a Game 7.

Studs of the Night

Clint Capela followed up a poor Game 4 by posting 16 points and 10 rebounds on 6-of-7 shooting for the Rockets.

Montrezl Harrell scored 24 points on 11-of-14 shooting for Los Angeles.

Dud of the Night

Donovan Mitchell scored 12 points on 4-of-22 shooting in Utah's loss.

Highlight

Capela overpowered Rudy Gobert in the paint and threw down a powerful two-handed slam.

Harrell soared over two Warriors to hammer home a dunk.

What's Next?

Nuggets at Spurs —  Denver has a 3-2 lead over seventh-seeded San Antonio. Should the Nuggets lose, they will have home court advantage for Game 7. But they'd likely rather avoid that against the Spurs' experienced players and coaching.

 

Ameer Tyree