Lakers Storm Back in Overtime, Take Commanding 3-0 Series Lead Over Rockets
Apr 24, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives with the ball as Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) defends during the fourth quarter during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The Lakers pulled off a remarkable comeback victory in Houston, rallying from what seemed like certain defeat to take a commanding 3-0 lead in their Western Conference first-round series. With the Rockets leading by six points and under 30 seconds remaining, Los Angeles appeared finished before staging one of the most dramatic turnarounds of the playoffs.
LeBron James led the charge with 29 points and 13 rebounds, playing over 45 minutes at age 41. The veteran superstar acknowledged the increased responsibility on his shoulders with key players sidelined. « Everyone has to do a little bit more because of how much we’re missing, » James said. « It’s a challenge for all of us and just trying to figure it out together. »
Smart’s veteran savvy proves decisive
Marcus Smart emerged as the hero in the clutch moments and overtime period. After Houston built a 101-95 advantage following consecutive James turnovers, Smart drew a foul on a 3-point attempt with 25.4 seconds remaining and converted all three free throws to cut the deficit to three points.
« It was a smart play, and that’s part of my vet savvy, being in the league for 12 years, » Smart said. « I picked up some tricks from some guys, right. So, that helped us a lot. »
James then stole the ball from Reed Sheppard and buried the tying 3-pointer with 13.1 seconds left in regulation. After Alperen Sengun missed a potential game-winner for Houston, James had one final chance but his 3-point attempt bounced off the rim, sending the game to overtime.
Smart took control in the extra period, scoring eight points including a crucial 3-pointer that sparked a 6-2 opening run. He finished with 21 points and 10 assists, while Rui Hachimura contributed 22 points for the Lakers.
Despite missing Kevin Durant for the second time in the series due to a sprained ankle, the Rockets fought valiantly behind Sengun’s 33 points and 16 rebounds, plus Amen Thompson‘s 26 points and 11 rebounds. However, their fourth-quarter struggles continued to haunt them.
« It’s obviously a weakness of ours to close out and finish, » Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. « The amount of mistakes or the type of mistakes are egregious and you can’t have those. »
Lakers coach JJ Redick praised his team’s resilience on the road. « It’s tough to win on the road in the playoffs and even without KD they’re a great basketball team, » Redick said. « And that was a huge test for us, especially in that moment when we’re down six. »
The Lakers can complete the sweep Sunday night in Houston, putting them one step closer to advancing in the Western Conference playoffs.
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