What happened: Finals series reached Game 5 with the starting five set. The same guard who arrived ahead of the Finals matchup closed the first quarter of Game 2 with a buzzer layup through contact. Game 6 is scheduled for Oct. 29 at State Farm Arena at 12:30 p.m. ET.

Why it matters: Rotation choices carry extra weight with the championship round tied to single-game swings. Hayes moved into the starting five for Game 4, tightening backcourt minutes around Chen.

What to watch: Game 5 decides whether Game 6 on Oct. 29 is required. Closing-lineup usage will indicate Chen's role in late-game offense.