Lakers One Win From Sweep After LeBron's Clutch OT Victory
James hits tying three-pointer with 13 seconds left, Lakers exploit Durant's absence to take commanding 3-0 series lead over Rockets.
LOS ANGELES — LeBron James delivered a clutch three-pointer with 13 seconds remaining in regulation, forcing overtime and propelling the Los Angeles Lakers to a 112-108 victory over the Houston Rockets on Friday night. The win gives the Lakers a commanding 3-0 lead in their first-round playoff series.
James finished with 29 points in a performance that showcased his veteran poise in high-pressure moments. His late-game heroics erased what had been a Rockets lead and shifted momentum decisively in the Lakers' favor heading into the extra period.
Durant's Absence Looms Large
The Rockets played without star forward Kevin Durant, a void that proved critical down the stretch. Houston struggled to match the Lakers' firepower in overtime, unable to compensate for the missing All-Star's scoring and playmaking ability. The Lakers capitalized on the undermanned opponent, outscoring Houston in the extra frame to secure the victory.
No NBA team has ever rallied from a 3-0 deficit to win a playoff series, placing the Rockets in a historically dire position. The Lakers can complete the sweep in Game 4 and advance to the second round.
What Comes Next
Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday in Los Angeles, where the Lakers will look to close out the series on their home court. For Houston, the challenge is monumental: avoid elimination while potentially still missing Durant, and attempt to become the first team in league history to overcome such a deficit.
James's performance continues a playoff legacy built on late-game execution. At 40 years old, he remains the Lakers' go-to option when games hang in the balance, a role he has filled for two decades across multiple franchises.
What we know: LeBron James scored 29 points and hit a game-tying three-pointer with 13 seconds left in regulation, leading the Lakers to a 112-108 overtime win and a 3-0 series lead. The Rockets played without Kevin Durant. What's unclear: Durant's status for Game 4 and whether Houston can mount any resistance to avoid the sweep.