The Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets are set for Game 3 in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. The Lakers lead the series 2-0 after winning the first two games. The game will take place at the Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 8:00 PM.
The Lakers are coached by JJ Redick and had a regular season record of 53-29. They have been strong in the postseason, winning both playoff games so far. The Rockets, led by coach Ime Udoka, finished the regular season with a 52-30 record. However, they have lost the first two games in the playoffs and look to turn things around at home.
Los Angeles Lakers Team Preview
The Los Angeles Lakers have been on a strong run. They won their last three games, including two in the postseason against the Houston Rockets. LeBron James has been a key player, averaging 23.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 10.0 assists per game in the playoffs.
Luke Kennard has stepped up for the Lakers, scoring 25.0 points per game in the postseason. He also contributes with 5.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists. Marcus Smart adds 20.0 points and 7.5 assists, helping the team on both ends of the floor.
On the defensive side, the Lakers allow 96.0 points per game, ranking second in the postseason. They hold opponents to a field goal percentage of 39.0, the best in the league. The team also keeps opponents to a three-point percentage of 29.0, which is second-best.
Houston Rockets Team Preview
The Houston Rockets come into this game with a recent tough series against the Los Angeles Lakers. They lost both games against the Lakers, with scores of 94-101 and 98-107. In these games, Alperen Sengün and Amen Thompson were standout players, each putting up strong performances.
Throughout the postseason, the Rockets have struggled with their shooting accuracy. They rank 20th in field goal percentage at 39.0 and are 18th in three-point percentage at 29.0. Despite these challenges, they have been effective in rebounding, ranking 11th in rebounds per game at 43.0.
Kevin Durant’s status is uncertain due to an ankle sprain, which could impact the Rockets’ lineup. The team is also missing Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet, who are out with injuries. Despite these setbacks, the Rockets have shown defensive strength, allowing only 104.0 points per game, ranking 7th in the league.
Betting Prediction
The Lakers and Rockets both show strong defensive stats this postseason. The Lakers allow only 96 points per game, while the Rockets allow 104 points. These figures suggest a lower-scoring game.
The Lakers have a high field goal percentage, but they play at a slower pace. They rank 19th in possessions per game. This slower tempo can lead to fewer points overall.
The Rockets struggle with shooting, holding a low field goal percentage. They rank 20th in field goal percentage this postseason. This also points to a game with fewer points.
- Pick: Under 206.5
