The Los Angeles Lakers secured a nail-biting 112-108 win over the Houston Rockets on Friday night, propelled by LeBron James' 29 points, including a crucial tying 3-pointer with 13 seconds left in regulation. This victory gives the Lakers a 3-0 lead in the Western Conference first-round series. Despite being down by six points with under 30 seconds remaining, the Lakers mounted a stunning comeback. Coach JJ Redick acknowledged the challenge posed by the Rockets, even without Kevin Durant, saying, 'It's tough to win on the road in the playoffs and even without KD, they're a great basketball team.' The Lakers can potentially sweep the series on Sunday night in Houston.
In overtime, the Lakers started strong with a 6-2 run, highlighted by a three-pointer from Smart, taking a 107-103 lead. Smart's two free throws with 35.5 seconds to go extended the lead to 111-105. Although Reed Sheppard's three-pointer brought Houston within three, Smart's subsequent free throw sealed the 112-108 win. James, who played over 45 minutes, emphasized the team's need to adapt due to injuries, stating, 'Everyone has to do a little bit more because of how much we're missing.' The Lakers received significant contributions from Smart, with 21 points and 10 assists, and Rui Hachimura, with 22 points.
Despite Durant's absence due to a sprained ankle, the Rockets were in a position to close out the game but struggled with closing out games in the fourth quarter, a weakness noted by coach Ime Udoka. Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points and 16 rebounds, and Amen Thompson added 26 points and 11 rebounds.
The Lakers initially led by 15 but found themselves down by six before Smart's three free throws after being fouled on a three-point attempt. James then stole the ball and tied the game with a three-pointer, sending it to overtime. In overtime, the Lakers' strong start and Smart's clutch free throws secured their win.