NBA Playoffs Roundup: Lakers edge Rockets in OT to take 3-0 lead, Celtics seize control vs Sixers
Los Angeles Lakers moved to the brink of a first-round sweep after grinding out a 112-108 overtime victory against the Houston Rockets in Game 3. It was a night defined by composure under pressure. LeBron James once again proved decisive, finishing with 29 points and 13 rebounds, including a clutch three-pointer late in regulation to force overtime.
From there, Marcus Smart took over. The guard poured in eight of his 21 points in the extra period, swinging momentum firmly in the Lakers’ favour and sealing a 3-0 series advantage.
No team has recovered from a 3-0 deficit in NBA playoff history, putting the Lakers in complete control heading into Game 4.
Spurs overcome adversity to edge ahead in Series
Elsewhere, San Antonio Spurs showed resilience by overturning a 15-point third-quarter deficit to take a 2-1 series lead. The victory was even more impressive given the absence of Victor Wembanyama, who was ruled out under concussion protocol before tip-off.
De'Aaron Fox led the charge with 18 points, while Luke Kornet recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds.
Celtics lean on star power to beat Sixers
Boston Celtics claimed a crucial 108-100 road win over the Philadelphia 76ers to take a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference series.
Jayson Tatum delivered when it mattered most, scoring 11 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter to close out the game. Jaylen Brown matched him with 25 points, while Payton Pritchard added 15 in a strong supporting role.
For Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey led all scorers with 31 points, though it came on heavy usage. Contributions from Paul George and Kelly Oubre Jr. kept the Sixers competitive, but inefficient shooting and a quiet night from VJ Edgecombeproved costly.
Big Picture
Momentum is beginning to shape the early playoff narrative.
- The Lakers are one win away from advancing, with experience and late-game execution proving decisive.
- The Celtics have regained control of a tightly contested series with their star duo stepping up.
- The Spurs have shown depth and resilience, even without their franchise cornerstone.
As the first round intensifies, the gap between contenders and pretenders is becoming clearer with every game.
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