Going to Houston with a 2-0 series lead, the Los Angeles Lakers had the opportunity to put themselves in a historically-advantageous position. And they did just that, defeating the Houston Rockets 112-108 to go up three games to none in the opening round of the 2026 NBA playoffs. Teams that have a 3-0 series lead are 159-0, which is great news for the Lakers.
After the first quarter, Los Angeles led 39-32 thanks in large part to forward Rui Hachimura. The seventh-year Gonzaga product was on fire, scoring 16 of his 22 points while being perfect from the field during the period on six shots.
Los Angeles stretched their lead to 11 by halftime, leading 63-52 at the break. At the midway point of the second quarter, a 10-3 run helped give the Lakers a much-needed cushion. Most notably, this run was provided by their father-son duo of forward LeBron James and guard Bronny James. The highlight of the half was marked by LeBron throwing a lob to Bronny, with the latter catching and finishing with a left-handed reverse layup.
Houston pulled within five at the end of the third, however, trailing 80-75. By the 3:53 mark of the fourth quarter, Houston had taken a 93-91 lead. This comeback was primarily driven by center Alperen Şengün, who dominated inside all night long. The two-time all star finished the night with a series best of 33 points, 16 rebounds, and six assists to go along with three steals and a block.
However, this lead was short-lived. The eldest James, who finished the night with 25 points, 13 rebounds, six assists, three steals and a block, hit the game-tying three. After four quarters, both sides were deadlocked at 101 points each.
In the overtime period, the Lakers prevailed due to crucial contributions from James, Hachimura, and veteran guard Marcus Smart. Smart stuffed the staff sheet, finishing with 21 points, 10 assists, five steals and two blocks.
Game Four will be played Sunday at 6:30 pm in Houston.