Rockets' blown-lead collapse leaves them on brink of elimination; Nuggets and Suns also under first‑round pressure

- Several NBA first‑round teams face elimination pressure: the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns are all described as 'on the brink' as their series edge toward decisive games. - CBS Sports specifically lists the Rockets, Nuggets and Suns as close to elimination, while the Los Angeles Lakers already hold a 3-0 lead over Houston — one win from advancing in that bracket path. - With those swings the next couple of games are pivotal for whether the opening round tightens into sweeps or forces longer series. (cbssports.com) (heavy.com)