Having won both games in Southern California to open the series against the Rockets, Lebron James and the Lakers can take a stranglehold of their 2026 NBA first-round playoff series tonight in Game 3.
Minus Luka Doncic (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique) the Lakers were actually the underdog in those first two games, but their defense has suffocated the Rockets especially on the perimeter. Kevin Durant and co. shot just 24% from deep (7-29) while the Lakers shot 46% (13-28).
In the absence of his high-profile running mates, LeBron James has turned back the clock averaging 23.5 points along with eight rebounds and ten assists. The revelation has been Luke Kennard who leads the Lakers with an average of 25 points per game.
No question the Rockets are falling short of expectations. Yes, Durant is struggling with a knee injury, but the offense has showcased a ridiculous lack of rhythm and imagination. Head Coach Ime Udoka has to be on the hot seat as he has found no answers against an undermanned Lakers’ team.
Note to remember: The Lakers have won 32 straight series after winning the first game of a playoff series, which is the longest streak in NBA history.
Lets take a closer look at tonight’s matchup and take into consideration lineups, injuries, and other factors affecting the line and total.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
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The latest odds as of Friday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: Los Angeles Lakers (+270), Houston Rockets (-340)
This game opened Rockets -9.5 with the Game Total set at 205.5.
Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!
Luka Doncic (hamstring) is listed as doubtful for tonight’s game
Austin Reaves (oblique) is listed as doubtful for tonight’s game
Kevin Durant (knee) is questionable for tonight’s game
Fred VanVleet (knee) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
Steven Adams (ankle) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
The OVER has cashed in 39 of the Rockets’ 84 games this season (39-45)
The OVER has cashed in 42 of the Lakers’ 84 games this season (42-42)