Lakers pull ahead in overtime to go up 3-0 on Rockets
Without Durant and missing key players of their own, the Lakers are one win from a playoff sweep.
At a glance
What matters most
- The Lakers defeated the Rockets 112-108 in overtime to take a commanding 3-0 series lead.
- Kevin Durant sat out Game 3 with a left ankle sprain, marking his second missed game in the series.
- Despite injuries to Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, the Lakers leaned on LeBron James to close out the win.
- The Spurs also advanced, beating the Trail Blazers 120-108 to take a 2-1 series lead without Victor Wembanyama.
Across the spectrum
What people are saying
A quick look at how the same story is being framed from different angles.
On the Left
The Lakers' ability to win despite multiple injuries shows how much depth and leadership matter in the playoffs. While star power like Durant's is important, it's consistent team play and coaching that carry teams far. The Rockets' reliance on individual talent backfired when Durant went down, underscoring the need for more balanced development in their roster.
In the Center
This series has become a test of resilience for both teams, but the Lakers are passing it more convincingly. Injuries are part of the postseason, and the team that adapts best usually wins. With James still delivering at a high level and Redick making smart adjustments, the Lakers look like the more complete squad right now.
On the Right
LeBron James continues to prove that elite veterans make the difference in big moments. While younger teams like the Rockets rely on flashy stars, it's old-school toughness and playoff IQ that win games like this. The Lakers aren't just surviving-they're thriving under pressure, and that's a sign of a true contender.
Full coverage
What you should know
The Los Angeles Lakers are on the brink of a playoff sweep after edging the Houston Rockets 112-108 in overtime on Friday night. The win gives them a 3-0 lead in the first-round series, putting immense pressure on Houston to respond in Game 4, which is scheduled for Sunday.
Kevin Durant, the Rockets' star forward, missed the game due to a left ankle sprain. It was his second absence in the series, and his team struggled to find consistent offense down the stretch. Without Durant's scoring punch, Houston couldn't capitalize on late opportunities, and the Lakers weathered the storm in extra time.
Ironically, the Lakers were also shorthanded. Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves both sat out with injuries, leaving more responsibility on LeBron James. The veteran delivered, playing 43 minutes and contributing key baskets and assists in crunch time. His presence stabilized the team when the game tightened in the fourth quarter and overtime.
Coach JJ Redick emphasized focus and discipline before the game, and the Lakers followed through despite the absences. Their depth and experience in high-pressure moments made the difference, especially on defense, where they forced critical turnovers late.
Elsewhere in the playoffs, the San Antonio Spurs beat the Portland Trail Blazers 120-108 to take a 2-1 series lead. Notably, they did it without Victor Wembanyama, who was out with a minor injury. The Spurs' balanced attack kept them in control throughout the game.
Back in Houston, the mood is growing tense. The Rockets need a win to stay alive, but with Durant's status uncertain and the Lakers gaining momentum, the path forward looks steep.
Game 4 will be played Sunday at the Toyota Center. If the Lakers win, they'll advance to the second round without dropping a game in the series-a rare feat in modern playoff basketball.
About this author
Zwely News Staff compiles multi-source reporting into concise, viewpoint-aware coverage for readers who want context without noise.
Source Notes
Lakers down Rockets in overtime for 3-0 series lead, Celtics beat Sixers
Elsewhere in the NBA playoffs, Spurs beat Trail Blazers 120-108 without Victor Wembanyama to take a 2-1 series lead.
Lakers beat Kevin Durant-less Rockets in Game 3, take 3-0 lead in series
Lakers coach JJ Redick had a clear message before his team’s Game 3 first round playoff series matchup against the Rockets on Friday night.
Rockets star Kevin Durant sidelined for Game 3 vs. Lakers
HOUSTON — Kevin Durant wasn’t available for Friday’s Game 3 against the Lakers, his second absence of the first-round playoff series. The Rockets star forward was ruled out because of a left ankle sprain, with the Rockets listing him as que...
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