Alperen Sengun is one of the biggest reasons the Rockets are locked in to the No. 2 seed in the Western Confrence.

Given his stature and role at the offensive end, Sengun is also someone Houston can't necessarily afford to lose.

Lately, Sengun's availability has been a bit of a mystery.

The 6-foot-10 center missed Houston's last game due to personal reasons, and he's questionable for Friday night against the Lakers, again for personal reasons.

Sengun is averaging 19.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.1 steals per game this season.

He's a playmaker from the high and low post spots, and he gives most opposing teams a lot of frustration.

If Sengun can go, it's also a big blow for the Lakers, who need a win to keep control of getting a home series in the playoffs.