Lakers Force Overtime With LeBron’s Late 3, Secure 3-0 Playoff Series Lead
HOUSTON — The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a thrilling overtime victory against the Houston Rockets in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series, now holding a commanding 3-0 lead with a chance to close out the series Sunday night. The Lakers won 112-108 after an intense 5-minute extra period, fueled by key performances from LeBron James and Marcus Smart.
LeBron James led all scorers with 29 points, adding 13 rebounds and six assists. His highlight moment came with just 13.1 seconds left in regulation—a clutch 3-pointer that tied the game and forced overtime. Smart was the overtime catalyst, scoring 8 of his 21 points in the extra period while contributing 10 assists and five steals overall.
Lakers Overcome Injuries, Mount Late Comeback
The Lakers have been battling through adversity with two star players out: Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves remain sidelined, forcing teammates to step up. Rui Hachimura also made a big impact, scoring 16 of his 22 points before halftime and hitting four 3-pointers on seven attempts.
Despite leading by as much as 15 points in the second half, the Lakers found themselves trailing by six with just 30 seconds left in regulation. Marcus Smart’s crucial steal in the final minute led to three free throws, which he calmly sank to cut the Rockets’ lead in half. Following an inbound, LeBron reclaimed possession with a steal and nailed the tying 3-pointer, electrifying the Lakers bench and crowd.
Rockets Fight Without Kevin Durant, Star Sengun Shines
The Houston Rockets played without their top scorer Kevin Durant for the second straight game due to an ankle injury. However, Alperen Sengun stepped up heroically, scoring a game-high 33 points along with 16 rebounds, six assists, and three steals in 47 minutes. Guard Amen Thompson added 26 points, while rookie guard Reed Sheppard scored 17, though shooting only 6 of 21.
Smart’s Overtime Surge Seals the Win
In overtime, Smart opened with a 3-pointer and spearheaded a quick 6-2 run. He hustled to save a missed 3-point shot from LeBron and earned multiple trips to the free-throw line, sinking key clutch shots to maintain the lead. The Lakers held the Rockets to just 7 overtime points, sealing a hard-fought victory on the road.
Young Bronny James also made an impact in nine minutes, outscoring the Rockets’ bench 5-3 with a 3-pointer and a highlight alley-oop from his father.
“The desperate team normally wins in the playoffs, the more desperate team,” said former player and commentator JJ Redick before the game. His words proved prophetic as the Lakers showed grit and urgency to force OT and take control of the series.
What’s Next?
With the series shifting back to Los Angeles, the Lakers have an opportunity to close out the Rockets in Game 4 Sunday night. They remain without Doncic and Reaves, and Durant’s status continues to impact Houston’s chances severely. The Lakers’ resilience on the road sends a message: they are determined to end this series swiftly.
For Lakers fans in California and across the U.S., this victory intensifies hopes that the storied franchise can advance deep into the playoffs despite the current injury challenges.
