Houston center Alperen Sengun insisted Friday night that the Rockets have not conceded their Western Conference first-round series despite a 3-0 hole against the Los Angeles Lakers.
“We have another game Sunday. The series is not over,” Sengun told reporters following the overtime loss in Game 3 at Toyota Center. “We still believe we can come back—win Sunday, then Game 5 in Los Angeles, then come back here again. Nobody is giving up.”
Durant Sidelined, Houston Stumbles
Houston’s troubles have mounted since the opener. Kevin Durant missed Games 2 and 3 with a sprained ankle, and the Rockets squandered a late lead Friday before falling in OT. After the defeat, head coach Ime Udoka criticized his players for “horrendous mistakes” and urged them to “grow up.”
Injuries on Both Sides
The Lakers also remain shorthanded. Guard Austin Reaves, out all series with an undisclosed issue, could return, while injured guard Luka Doncic has yet to appear.
Long Odds
No NBA team has ever overcome a 3-0 postseason deficit. Houston’s path begins with Game 4 on Sunday in Houston, followed by a potential Game 5 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Source: Hoops Wire
