Lakers Claim 112-108 OT Win in Houston, Take 3-0 Lead Over Rockets
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Houston, TX — April 24, 2026. The Los Angeles Lakers pushed the Houston Rockets to the brink of elimination, pulling out a 112-108 overtime victory in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series at Toyota Center.
Los Angeles entered the night already up 2-0 and caught a break moments before tipoff when Houston ruled out Kevin Durant with a left ankle sprain. The Lakers were again without guard Austin Reaves, sidelined for a third consecutive contest.
Both teams opened hot, with the Lakers sinking their first six shots—four by Rui Hachimura—to grab a 39-32 edge after one quarter. Jabari Smith Jr. answered in the second, knocking down four straight three-pointers, but a Bronny James triple and a lob dunk from LeBron James restored a double-digit cushion at halftime, 63-52.
Houston charged back with a 12-4 burst to start the third. Turnovers and offensive rebounds plagued Los Angeles, allowing the Rockets to pull within five, 80-75, heading into the fourth.
Smith continued to pace Houston, and Reed Sheppard’s three put the Rockets up one inside the final five minutes. Alperen Şengün’s interior work extended the lead, yet two late Houston turnovers opened the door. LeBron James drilled a deep three to knot the score at 101 with seconds left, then missed a potential winner at the buzzer to force overtime.
Marcus Smart opened the extra period with a corner three and later grabbed a key offensive rebound that led to two free throws, giving Los Angeles control for good. The Lakers held on from there, securing a 3-0 series advantage.
Remaining Schedule
- Game 4: Sunday, April 26, 6:30 p.m. PT — Toyota Center
- Game 5*: Wednesday, April 29, time TBD — Crypto.com Arena
- Game 6*: Friday, May 1, time TBD — Toyota Center
- Game 7*: Sunday, May 3, time TBD — Crypto.com Arena
*If necessary
Source: LakersNation.com
