Lakers secure 112-108 OT win, lead series 3-0
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HOUSTON — The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Houston Rockets 112-108 in overtime in Game 3 on Friday at the Toyota Center, when LeBron James scored 29 points and Marcus Smart finished with 21 points and 10 assists; James also stole the ball and hit a game-tying three in the closing seconds of regulation.
Houston now faces elimination with the Lakers leading the best-of-seven series 3-0; the teams will meet again Sunday for Game 4. Rockets coach Ime Udoka criticized late mistakes and youth after the loss, while Marcus Smart’s late free throws and overtime play secured the Lakers’ position and set up a potential series sweep.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Earlier series games left the Lakers leading before Game 3.
- 2. Friday: Rockets led by six with under 30 seconds remaining in regulation.
- 3. Late turnovers and a Marcus Smart three-point sequence tied the game, forcing overtime.
- 4. Lakers outperformed in overtime to win 112-108 and took a 3-0 series lead.
- 5. Sunday: Game 4 scheduled in Houston, with Rockets facing potential elimination.
Why it matters
If you're a Lakers fan, this is a moment to savor. The team's performance, especially LeBron's clutch play and Smart's overtime heroics, shows they're in top form. For Rockets fans, it's a tense time. The next game could decide their team's fate.
Sources
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