Lakers defeat Rockets 112-108 in Game 3 in Houston

HOUSTON — Lakers Coach’s Playoff Insight

On Friday night, before the Lakers faced the Rockets in the first round of the playoffs, coach JJ Redick shared a straightforward thought: “Usually in the playoffs, the desperate teams win.”

Despite being missing key players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reeves throughout the series, the Lakers entered this game as the favorites. And that night, they certainly displayed desperation.

In a nail-biting finish, the Lakers staged an incredible comeback, overcoming a six-point deficit with just 30 seconds to go in regulation. They managed to defeat the Rockets 112-108 in overtime, even without Kevin Durant.

LeBron James had an impressive performance, scoring 29 points with 13 rebounds, six assists, and three steals. Teammate Marcus Smart contributed 21 points, 10 assists, five steals, and two blocks. Rui Hachimura shone with 22 points, while Luke Kennard added 14 points, six assists, and six rebounds. Jackson Hayes scored 12 points off the bench.

Interestingly enough, the Rockets showed resilience, battling back even after falling behind by double digits in the first half. Alperen Sengun netted 33 points and pulled down 16 rebounds, while Armen Thompson added 26 points and 11 rebounds, and Jabari Smith Jr. contributed 24 points and six rebounds. Yet, in the end, it was the Lakers who took the win.

What It Means

The Lakers now lead the best-of-seven series 3-0, putting them on the brink of advancing to the second round of the playoffs. Historically, no NBA team has come back from a 3-0 deficit in a playoff series, and teams that have achieved a 3-0 lead have won in all 125 instances since the NBA moved to a 16-team playoff format in 1984.

Turning Point

With the Rockets ahead 101-98 and only 20 seconds remaining in regulation, James made a crucial defensive play, knocking the ball away from Shepard and passing it up to Smart. Smart then assisted James, who quickly returned the ball to Kennard. Kennard buried a corner three-pointer, tying the game with 14 seconds left. On Houston’s subsequent possession, Hayes stepped up defensively against Sengun, allowing James to collect a key rebound. Although James missed a chance for a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer, the game went into overtime.

Co-MVP: LeBron James and Marcus Smart

Both players were instrumental in the Lakers’ victory, making significant plays during the crucial moments in the fourth quarter and overtime. James executed a pivotal sequence in the closing minutes, while Smart recorded a crucial steal and secured key rebounds, making free throws that ultimately bolstered the Lakers’ lead.