Lakers Take Commanding Lead in Play-offs
LeBron James’ heroics helped the Los Angeles Lakers secure an overtime victory against the Houston Rockets in the NBA play-offs. James, who has four NBA titles, most recently with the Lakers in 2020, levelled the score with 13 seconds remaining. He almost won it on the buzzer but the Lakers eventually prevailed 112-108 in overtime.
The Lakers now hold a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven first round series.
James Shines in Absence of Injured Players
James, aged 41, stepped up in the absence of the injured Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. He recorded a team-high 29 points and 13 rebounds. Marcus Smart also delivered a double-double, contributing 21 points, including eight in overtime, and a team-high 10 assists.
“With two of our best players down, we’ve got to play desperate,” said Smart. “We’ve got to be the most desperate team.”
Smart added: “That’s how we’ve been playing, and that’s how we’re winning, right? The chemistry has been good, and you’re starting to see guys’ confidence go up because of that.”
Durant’s Absence Impacts Rockets
An ankle sprain sidelined Houston’s leading scorer Kevin Durant for the second time in the series.
Rockets Face Elimination
The Rockets host game four on Sunday. They must win to prevent the Lakers from sweeping the series and advancing to the Western Conference semi-finals.
Elsewhere in the NBA
Conference rivals San Antonio lead the Portland Trail Blazers 2-1 after fighting back to claim a 120-108 win on the road. Stephon Castle scored 33 points for the Spurs while rookie reserve Dylan Harper added career bests of 27 points and 10 rebounds. Victor Wembanyama was on the Spurs bench but could not play as this season’s defensive player of the year remained in concussion protocol after suffering a head injury in game two on Tuesday.
The Boston Celtics took a 2-1 lead over Eastern Conference rivals Philadelphia as they claimed a 108-100 win at the 76ers. Jayson Tatum scored 11 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter while Jaylen Brown also scored 25 points for Boston.
Lakers Aim for Series Sweep
Houston will need to win their next game to avoid a series sweep at the hands of James and the Lakers.