LeBron James rescues Lakers in overtime thriller and pushes Rockets to brink

LeBron James scored 29 points, including a tying three-pointer with 13 seconds left in regulation. Marcus Smart contributed eight points in overtime. The Los Angeles Lakers took advantage of Houston Rockets missing Kevin Durant to win 112-108, securing a 3-0 series lead. The Lakers rallied from a six-point deficit with under 30 seconds remaining. Coach JJ Redick noted the challenge of winning on the road without Durant, calling it a 'huge test.' Los Angeles opened overtime with a 6-2 run, including a three-pointer by Smart, who made two free throws to extend the lead to 111-105. Reed Sheppard’s three-pointer brought Houston within three, but Smart’s free throws sealed the win at 112-108. James played over 45 minutes, emphasizing his role as the team’s primary scorer despite injuries to top players Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Smart added 21 points and 10 assists, while Rui Hachimura contributed 22 points. Durant was absent due to a sprained ankle, but Rockets struggled to close out games, with coach Ime Udoka highlighting their weakness in finishing. Alperen Sengun led with 33 points and 16 rebounds, while Amen Thompson added 26 points and 11 rebounds. The Lakers led by 15 early but fell behind six points before Smart’s clutch free throws. James tied the game with a three-pointer and stole the ball for another three-pointer, but a missed seven-footer and James’ missed three-point attempt sent it to overtime. James threw an alley-oop pass to his son Bronny in the first half. The Rockets’ fourth-quarter struggles persisted, with Udoka criticizing egregious mistakes.