Reminding you of that Houston Rockets statistic.

In every game of the Rockets’ playoffs run, and they have played 12 so far … when they have led after a quarter, they have won.

When trailing after a quarter, they have lost.

First-quarter score from Staples Center: Lakers 22, Rockets 12.

Though the Rockets are bucking a trend, this isn’t as bad for them as it might look. I mean, beyond the fact the they are playing without their top two scorers, Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming.

The Lakers were ahead 17-4, so 22-12 represented an 8-5 finish to the quarter by the Rockets.

Plus, the Lakers aren’t exactly killing, at the attacking end. Kobe Bryant is off. Pau Gasol has missed some chippies. If not for a couple of Trevor Ariza three-pointers (and all Lakers fans know he is an erratic shooter from the arc), this is a very close game.

The positives, for the Lakers: They seem to have decided to play defense today, which always is helpful. They are keeping Aaron Brooks out of the lane, and the frustrated Rockets have been silly enough to throw the ball to Ron Artest, who has attempted three badly errant three-pointers.

Anyway, this doesn’t feel like a blowout. Not like Game 5. Not 12 minutes in, anyway.