Boston Celtics (56-26, second in the Eastern Conference) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (45-37, seventh in the Eastern Conference)
Philadelphia; Sunday, 7 p.m. EDT
LINE: Celtics -7.5; over/under is 213.5
EASTERN CONFERENCE FIRST ROUND: Celtics lead series 2-1
BOTTOM LINE: The Boston Celtics visit the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference first round with a 2-1 lead in the series. The Celtics won the last meeting 108-100 on Friday, led by 25 points from Jaylen Brown. Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 31.
The 76ers are 27-25 against Eastern Conference opponents. Philadelphia ranks eighth in the Eastern Conference in rebounding with 43.6 rebounds. Andre Drummond leads the 76ers with 8.4 boards.
The Celtics have gone 36-16 against Eastern Conference opponents. Boston ranks fourth in the Eastern Conference with 12.5 offensive rebounds per game led by Neemias Queta averaging 3.0.
The 76ers make 46.2% of their shots from the field this season, which is 2.0 percentage points higher than the Celtics have allowed to their opponents (44.2%). The Celtics are shooting 46.7% from the field, which equals what the 76ers' opponents have shot this season.
TOP PERFORMERS: Quentin Grimes is scoring 13.4 points per game and averaging 3.6 rebounds for the 76ers. Maxey is averaging 24.5 points and 3.4 rebounds over the last 10 games.
Derrick White is averaging 16.5 points and 5.4 assists for the Celtics. Brown is averaging 24.0 points over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: 76ers: 5-5, averaging 109.8 points, 44.4 rebounds, 22.0 assists, 8.2 steals and 4.4 blocks per game while shooting 46.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 110.6 points per game.
Celtics: 8-2, averaging 119.9 points, 45.5 rebounds, 27.2 assists, 6.7 steals and 4.7 blocks per game while shooting 49.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.3 points.
INJURIES: 76ers: Joel Embiid: day to day (abdomen).
Celtics: None listed.
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
With 4:48 left in the third quarter, Portland took a 15-point lead on a Jerami Grant free throw. The Trail Blazers appeared in control of Game 3 against a shorthanded Spurs team without Victor Wembanyama.
That control was an illusion.
San Antonio stormed back behind the play of rookie Dylan Harper — by the end of the third quarter, the Spurs were already ahead by one. Then, in the middle of the fourth quarter, San Antonio went on a 15-1 run to pull away. By 4:05 left in the game, it was a 15-point Spurs lead — a 30-point swing in San Antonio's favor.
During that run, Dylan Harper scored 20 of his 27 in the night, shooting 7-of-8, including 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. He was putting on a show.
San Antonio held on to win 120-108 on the road, taking a 2-1 series lead. Game 4 is on Sunday in Portland.
San Antonio got this win without Victor Wembanyama, who suffered a concussion on a brutal face-first fall in Game 2. While he traveled with the team to Portland and was on the bench for this game, he was not cleared to play in Game 3, and his status for Game 4 remains unclear. The only update Spurs coach Mitch Johnson would give is that Wemby is "progressing."
Stephon Castle led the Spurs with 33 points, while De'Aaron Fox added 18 points. Luke Kornet, starting at the five in place of Wembanyama, finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds, both career playoff highs.
However, it was Harper who provided the spark and was making history.
Dylan Harper is the second-youngest player to score 20+ points off the bench in a Playoff game 40 years.
This is a tough loss for the Trail Blazers, who needed to pick up a win while Wembanyama was out. It was also the team's first home playoff game since 2021.
Jrue Holiday had 29 points to lead the Trail Blazers and was their best player on the night. Scoot Henderson added 21 points, and while Deni Avdija scored 19, he shot just 3-of-15 from the floor (12-of-16 from the free throw line).
San Antonio Spurs (62-20, second in the Western Conference) vs. Portland Trail Blazers (42-40, eighth in the Western Conference)
Portland, Oregon; Sunday, 3:30 p.m. EDT
LINE: Spurs -5.5; over/under is 219
WESTERN CONFERENCE FIRST ROUND: Spurs lead series 2-1
BOTTOM LINE: The San Antonio Spurs visit the Portland Trail Blazers in the Western Conference first round with a 2-1 lead in the series. The Spurs won the last meeting 120-108 on Saturday, led by 33 points from Stephon Castle. Jrue Holiday led the Trail Blazers with 29.
The Trail Blazers are 29-23 in conference games. Portland ranks sixth in the NBA with 46.0 rebounds led by Donovan Clingan averaging 11.6.
The Spurs have gone 36-16 against Western Conference opponents. San Antonio is second in the league with 47.0 rebounds per game. Victor Wembanyama leads the Spurs with 11.5.
The Trail Blazers average 14.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.5 more made shots on average than the 13.0 per game the Spurs give up. The Spurs average 119.8 points per game, 4.0 more than the 115.8 the Trail Blazers allow.
TOP PERFORMERS: Clingan is averaging 12.1 points, 11.6 rebounds and 1.7 blocks for the Trail Blazers. Deni Avdija is averaging 25.2 points over the last 10 games.
De'Aaron Fox is scoring 18.6 points per game and averaging 3.8 rebounds for the Spurs. Devin Vassell is averaging 2.1 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Trail Blazers: 6-4, averaging 113.8 points, 44.2 rebounds, 24.8 assists, 8.9 steals and 5.8 blocks per game while shooting 45.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 108.8 points per game.
Spurs: 7-3, averaging 119.7 points, 47.1 rebounds, 27.9 assists, 7.5 steals and 5.4 blocks per game while shooting 48.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.1 points.
INJURIES: Trail Blazers: Damian Lillard: out for season (achilles).
Spurs: Jordan McLaughlin: day to day (ankle), David Jones Garcia: out for season (ankle), Victor Wembanyama: day to day (concussion).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Cleveland Cavaliers (52-30, fourth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Toronto Raptors (46-36, fifth in the Eastern Conference)
Toronto; Sunday, 1 p.m. EDT
LINE: Cavaliers -3.5; over/under is 220.5
EASTERN CONFERENCE FIRST ROUND: Cavaliers lead series 2-1
BOTTOM LINE: The Cleveland Cavaliers visit the Toronto Raptors in the Eastern Conference first round with a 2-1 lead in the series. The Raptors won the last meeting 126-104 on Friday, led by 33 points from Scottie Barnes. James Harden led the Cavaliers with 18.
The Raptors are 33-19 in conference matchups. Toronto has a 7-4 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer.
The Cavaliers are 33-19 in Eastern Conference play. Cleveland averages 119.5 points while outscoring opponents by 4.1 points per game.
The Raptors are shooting 48.2% from the field this season, 1.8 percentage points higher than the 46.4% the Cavaliers allow to opponents. The Cavaliers average 14.3 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.8 more made shots on average than the 12.5 per game the Raptors give up.
TOP PERFORMERS: Barnes is averaging 18.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.5 blocks for the Raptors. RJ Barrett is averaging 20.3 points and 3.4 assists over the last 10 games.
Harden is averaging 23.6 points and eight assists for the Cavaliers. Donovan Mitchell is averaging 18.1 points over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Raptors: 5-5, averaging 116.8 points, 38.9 rebounds, 29.4 assists, 8.1 steals and 4.1 blocks per game while shooting 52.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 110.1 points per game.
Cavaliers: 7-3, averaging 118.9 points, 42.5 rebounds, 26.3 assists, 8.3 steals and 4.1 blocks per game while shooting 50.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 117.3 points.
INJURIES: Raptors: Immanuel Quickley: out (hamstring).
Cavaliers: None listed.
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Los Angeles Lakers (53-29, fourth in the Western Conference) vs. Houston Rockets (52-30, fifth in the Western Conference)
Houston; Sunday, 9:30 p.m. EDT
LINE: Rockets -5.5; over/under is 207
WESTERN CONFERENCE FIRST ROUND: Lakers lead series 3-0
BOTTOM LINE: The Los Angeles Lakers look to clinch the series over the Houston Rockets in game four of the Western Conference first round. The Lakers defeated the Rockets 112-108 in overtime in the last matchup on Saturday. LeBron James led the Lakers with 29 points, and Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 33.
The Rockets are 29-23 in Western Conference games. Houston leads the Western Conference in rebounding, averaging 48.1 boards. Sengun leads the Rockets with 8.9 rebounds.
The Lakers are 33-19 in Western Conference play. Los Angeles has an 8-3 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer.
The Rockets score 115.2 points per game, 0.6 more points than the 114.6 the Lakers allow. The Lakers score 6.3 more points per game (116.3) than the Rockets allow their opponents to score (110.0).
TOP PERFORMERS: Sengun is averaging 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists for the Rockets. Amen Thompson is averaging 19.8 points over the last 10 games.
Deandre Ayton is scoring 12.5 points per game and averaging 8.0 rebounds for the Lakers. Rui Hachimura is averaging 2.2 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Rockets: 6-4, averaging 117.2 points, 47.2 rebounds, 25.7 assists, 8.9 steals and 5.1 blocks per game while shooting 47.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.9 points per game.
Lakers: 7-3, averaging 110.9 points, 39.6 rebounds, 28.7 assists, 10.3 steals and 4.4 blocks per game while shooting 51.5% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.2 points.
INJURIES: Rockets: Fred VanVleet: out for season (acl), Steven Adams: out for season (ankle), Kevin Durant: day to day (ankle).
Lakers: Austin Reaves: day to day (oblique), Luka Doncic: out (hamstring).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Jayson Tatum continued to shine in his return from injury with 25 points and Jaylen Brown also scored 25 to help the Boston Celtics beat the Philadelphia 76ers 108-100 on Friday night and take a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference first-round series.
Game 4 is Sunday in Philadelphia.
Tatum was 5 of 9 on 3-pointers in just his 19th game this season following surgery last May to repair his Achilles tendon. Brown scored eight straight points late in the fourth for a 96-92 lead that put some distance between them and a Sixers team brimming with confidence following a surprise Game 2 win in Boston.
Tatum buried a 3 for a 100-96 lead and Payton Pritchard hit a step-back 3 to make it 103-98. Tatum, still looking to regain his top form after not playing for nearly a year, may just be there and hit the final 3-point dagger for the 106-100 lead that even sent Allen Iverson headed toward the exit.
Philadelphia played again without center Joel Embiid for Game 3 as he continues to ease his way back into practice following an appendectomy on April 9.
Tyrese Maxey scored 31 points and Paul George added 18.
LAKERS 112, ROCKETS 108, OT
HOUSTON (AP) — LeBron James scored 29 points, including a tying 3-pointer with 13 seconds left in regulation, Marcus Smart had eight points in overtime and Los Angeles took advantage of Houston team missing Kevin Durant for a win to take a 3-0 lead in the Western Conference first-round series.
The Lakers rallied from a six-point deficit with under 30 seconds remaining and can sweep the series Sunday night in Houston.
Smart added 21 points and 10 assists, and Rui Hachimura added 22 points for the Lakers.
Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points and 16 rebounds. Amen Thompson added 26 points and 11 rebounds.
SPURS 120, TRAIL BLAZERS 108
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Stephon Castle had 33 points and San Antonio overcame the absence of Victor Wembanyama to beat Portland for a 2-1 series lead.
Dylan Harper added 27 points and 10 rebounds for the Spurs, who trailed by 15 points in the third quarter. Game 4 of the first-round series Sunday at the Moda Center.
Before the game Spurs coach Mitch Johnson announced that Wembanyama would not play while he continues to recover from a concussion he sustained in Game 2 on Tuesday night.
Jrue Holiday had 29 points for the Trail Blazers, who were making their first home playoff appearance since 2021, but couldn’t ultimately take advantage Wembanyama’s absence.
Apr 24, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) attempts to steal the ball from Los Angeles Lakers center/forward Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first quarter during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images | Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
After defending their home court in the first two games, the Lakers headed to Houston knowing they would receive the Rockets’ best punch in Game 3. And that they did.
With the news they would be without Kevin Durant for the second time in the series, the Rockets played every bit like a team whose back was against the wall. They crashed the offensive glass, flew around the court and tried every option they had on the bench in search of a different result.
However, just like they did in the first two games, the Lakers endured every swing and matched Houston’s desperation en route to a nail-biting 112-108 win in overtime.
It wasn’t a perfect game. No playoff games typically are. But the Lakers proved once again that they can win ugly and in unfathomable ways. And that’s the reason they own a commanding 3-0 lead in the series with a chance for the sweep on Sunday.
Here are the biggest takeaways from the crazy win.
A fourth quarter (and overtime) in two parts
It may seem like it happened last week, but the Lakers led by 15 at one point in Game 3. They dictated the terms, their offense clicked and they looked like the team deserving to be up so convincingly in the series. Then the second half happened. And then it snowballed in the fourth quarter.
After trailing for the majority of the first half, the Rockets outscored the Lakers by 11 points in the second (excluding overtime). They clamped down on the Lakers’ offense and continued to be relentless in the paint and the glass on the other end. With 41 seconds left in regulation, the Rockets were suddenly up six. The brooms would have to be put back into closets across Los Angeles.
The Lakers had blown it. They had not only failed to step on the neck of their weakened foe, but had, even worse, afforded them hope — or so it seemed.
Like they have done all year, the Lakers ultimately came through in the clutch. LeBron James’ game-tying 3-pointer capped off a wild final minute and sent the contest into overtime, where the Lakers ultimately staved off the Rockets’ potentially final gasp.
All of the turmoil, injuries and close games the Lakers endured this season actually ended up preparing them for moments like this. The playoffs are fought in the trenches and it’s the trenches where the Lakers have thrived.
Marcus Smart’s omnipresence
If LeBron James’ clutch 3-pointer goes on to be the lasting picture of Game 3, then it was Marcus Smart’s fingerprints and sweat that were smeared over the lens.
To say Smart played a part in the win would be a severe understatement. In his 39 minutes, Smart finished with 21 points, 10 assists, 4 rebounds, 7 stocks (5 steals and 2 blocks) and was the only starter with a positive net rating. The Lakers wound up needing every stat.
Beyond the all-encompassing numbers, Smart consistently found himself involved in every big play down the stretch.
It was his steal and three free throws that breathed life back into a Lakers’ team left for dead with 25 seconds left. It was his three that opened the scoring in overtime. And it was his timely rebounds and trips to the free-throw line that sealed it.
The Houston Rockets had possession with 27.8 seconds left in regulation and a 101-95 lead
Marcus Smart outscored Houston by himself 11-7 to end the game, including 8-7 by himself in overtime alone pic.twitter.com/xV5OXfCPgz
Smart’s Game 3 performance was the latest example of what has made him so valuable this season and the Lakers’ collective spirit in the first round.
No matter how severe the odds, Smart feels like he can beat them with sheer effort and guile alone. And so far, he’s proving he’s right.
A big night from the bench
Once it became known that the Lakers would be without Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves for a portion, if not all, of their series against the Rockets, it became evident that it would take a collective effort to extend their season.
After getting key contributions from the likes of Smart and Luke Kennard in the first two games, it was the bench in Game 3 that came up big.
The foursome of Jaxson Hayes, Jake LaRavia, Jarred Vanderbilt and Bronny James scored a combined 24 points and were each a positive in the plus/minus department. In contrast, the Rockets’ six reserves scored just 3 points and all finished with a negative plus/minus.
Outside of their totals, each player off the bench also chipped in from a momentum perspective.
Hayes’ hard rolls and athleticism on both ends helped alleviate a quiet offensive game from Ayton. LaRavia and Vanderbilt’s hard-nosed defense and second chance creation kept the team afloat during the rough patches. And Bronny James’ helpful second quarter minutes — highlighted by his alley-oop finish that was thrown from his father— provided a spark.
It was always going to take the entire team to make up for what is currently lost. And with all signs pointing to a near return for Reaves, the Lakers have not only succeeded in holding down the fort, but also put themselves in a better position than anyone could have imagined.
All stats courtesy of Cleaning the Glass unless otherwise stated. You can follow Alex on Bluesky at @alexregla.bsky.social.
PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 24: Dylan Harper #2 of the San Antonio Spurs shoots a free throw during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers during Round One Game Three of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2026 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The San Antonio Spurs had a tough time in Portland, dealing with physicality and athleticism, but they dug deep for their most impressive win of the season without the mighty Victor Wembanyama. They mucked up the Trail Blazers offensive sets and held them to 111.5 points per 100 possessions, which is good enough for the 37th percentile, per Cleaning the Glass.
They helped loads off the 3-point line to clog the inside, but Portland’s pressure was as unforgiving, forcing six early turnovers and making it equally as difficult to score in the paint with all the incoming help. Yet, the Spurs who stepped up the most were Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle. They gave the team direction when it was badly needed and took them to the finish line.
Observations
The Spurs faced their largest deficit of the night in the third quarter (15), and took a one-point lead going into the fourth thanks to their defense getting nasty and some big-time scoring from Harper, which carried over into crunch time. One questioned if it was a peak into the future, watching Castle and Harper bail out the team, but after pondering before the deadline of this write-up, the future is now. They are both great shot creators and will be the best backcourt in the NBA before long when they start sharing the court more often at the start of games and polish their 3-point shots.
Without Wembanyama (concussion), this is an even series. The Spurs’ front line was vulnerable because it had to go small when Luke Kornet sat, yet they were able to stop the Blazers from going wild on the glass. Still, the Blazers had no fear of attacking the lane for a bucket or kick-out pass, and they did damage in transition for most of the game. This also unlocked 29 free throw attempts for the Blazers, but them being so ineffective at the line was a big help to the Spurs.
Portland’s attack wasn’t anything special. The transition success stemmed from the defense forcing misses, plus turnovers and the Spurs’ inability to generate free throw attempts for 2.5 quarters, which cut the flow of the game.
Last season, Andrew Nembhard was the player whose stock went up the most in the playoffs. This year, it’s maybe Scoot Henderson, whose hot streak continued behind a stream of 3-point shots in the first half, but he went cold after intermission.
Jrue Holiday is a timeless baller, which adds credibility to any advice he gives the youngsters. He was giving it to the Spurs for three quarters, attacking through screen rolls and did well denying the ball. His fingerprints were all over the third quarter, when the Blazers built their largest lead of the game (15).
Deni Avdija is one of the biggest foul baiters in the league, which got him a ton of free throw attempts to soften the blow of his poor shooting. He even drew two of Fox’s three first-half fouls, which limited his aggression following intermission.
The Trail Blazers came into this game, making only 30.3 percent of their 3-point attempts, and the only spot they shot well from deep was the left corner. They shot 36.8 percent this time, but that number is affected mostly by the Spurs defense making them tighter after intermission.
Carter Bryant was instant impact when he came in, hustling to break up transition and screen for his teammates. Yet he was a bit exposed because the Blazers didn’t want to guard him closely for lack of a dependable outside shot, which made things harder for his teammates. Still, he was way more of a positive than a negative.
TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 24:Immanuel Quickley #5 of the Toronto Raptors passes the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 24, 2025 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Mark Blinch/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Toronto Raptors announced Friday that point guard Immanuel Quickley will not be available for the remainder of the team’s first round series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Quickley, who was recovering from a hamstring issue, re-injured it during the rehabilitation process. The team added that an update will be provided “as appropriate”.
After several injury-plagued seasons, Quickley appeared in 70 this past year – his most since 2022-2023 when he was a member of the New York Knicks. He is also one of the team’s better three-point shooters at 37% and he attempts the most threes per game on the team. That floor spacing is imperative on a team that is challenged offensively at keeping up with their opponents when the scoring starts coming. On the year, Quickley averaged 16.4 points and 5.9 assists per game.
In his absence, the Raptors have started Jamal Shead and Ja’Kobe Walter so far in the series. Rookie Collin Murray-Boyles, who was very effective in Game 3 with 22 points off the bench, could also start in Quickley’s place.
The Cavs catch a break with Quickley being ruled out for the series, which narrows the margin of error even more for the Raptors. Cleveland’s offense was very poor in Game 3, but they muscled their way through the first half with a tie and put themselves in position to win entering the fourth quarter. The final score is not indicative of how much the Cavs fought back, so there is good reason to believe the offense will look better in Game 4 just due to regression back to the mean. Toronto, meanwhile, shot 61% from deep in Game 3 – well above their season average.
They did not necessarily need him for Game 3, but Toronto certainly would have liked to see Quickley on the court for another near must-win Game 4. The Raptors trail the series 2-1, and its is fair to say that the first two games are more indicative of what the baseline is for these two teams. The Cavs have had one of the best offenses since the All-Star break, and the Raptors have struggled mightily in that same timeframe.
The Cavs and Raptors will square off in Game 4 on Sunday afternoon.
“The desperate team normally wins in the playoffs,” Redick said, “the more desperate team.”
Despite missing two of their best players in Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves for the entire series, the Lakers have been the better team in the matchup.
And on Friday night, they were also the more desperate team.
After trailing by six points fewer than 30 seconds left in the fourth quarter, the Lakers pulled off a miraculous comeback against the Kevin Durant-less Rockets, beating the Rockets 112-108 in overtime on Friday night at Toyota Center to take a three-game lead in the series.
“There’s a lot of things that happened that were not perfect, including some stuff I did,” Redick said postgame. “But you just kind of get onto the next play. And that, to me, is a hallmark of poise; that’s a hallmark of composure. It’s tough to win on the road in the playoffs. Even without KD, they’re a great basketball team and that was a huge test for us, especially in that moment where we’re down six.”
Despite trailing by six points with 30 seconds left in the fourth quarter, the Lakers pulled off a miraculous comeback against the Kevin Durant-less Rockets APBut the Rockets scratched and clawed their way to victory after falling behind by double digits in the first half. AP
Marcus Smart had 21 points, 10 assists, 5 steals and 2 blocked shots.
Rui Hachimura scored 22 points, including 16 in the first quarter, while Luke Kennard added 14 points, 6 assists and 6 rebounds. Jaxson Hayes had 12 points and 4 rebounds off the bench.
The Rockets scratched and clawed their way back into the game after falling behind by 15 in the first half, trailing by 11 at halftime and five at the end of the third quarter.
Alperen Sengun (33 points, 16 rebounds, 6 assists), Amen Thompson (26 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists) and Jabari Smith Jr. (24 points, 6 rebounds) all had their best games of the series so far.
But the Lakers prevailed.
The Lakers are up 3-0 in the best-of-seven series against the Rockets, all guaranteeing that they’ll advance to the second round of the playoffs. AP
What it means
The Lakers are up 3-0 in the best-of-seven series against the Rockets, all guaranteeing that they’ll advance to the second round of the playoffs.
No team in NBA history has come back from down 0-3 in a playoff series, with the teams that were up 3-0 advancing all 125 times since the NBA moved to a 16-team playoff in 1984.
The Lakers haven’t been up 3-0 in a playoff series since 2010 when they swept the Jazz in the second round.
Turning point
With the Rockets leading 101-98 with 20 seconds left in regulation, James tapped the ball out of Sheppard’s hand from behind to Smart in the frontcourt.
Smart passed the ball to James, who passed to Kennard, who passed back to James, who hit a corner 3-pointer to tie the game at 101 apiece with 14 seconds left.
Hayes got the defensive stop on Sengun on the Rockets’ ensuing possession, with James grabbing the defensive rebound.
James missed the potential game-winning 3 at the end of regulation to send the game into overtime.
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HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 24: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots a three point basket during the game against the Houston Rockets during Round 1 Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2026 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
A couple of weeks ago, the thought of the Lakers being lucky injury-wise was laughable. However, now that they’ve played three playoff games, LA is trending in a positive direction with its injuries, and other Western Conference teams are in trouble.
The Denver Nuggets are trailing 2-1 in their series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Aaron Gordon missed Game 3 with tightness in his calf. The San Antonio Spurs are tied 1-1 against the Portland Trail Blazers, but were without Victor Wembanyama in Game 3 due to a concussion.
And the Oklahoma City Thunder may be up 2-0 against the Phoenix Suns, but Jalen Williams sustained a Grade 1 left hamstring strain and will be re-evaluated weekly.
The Lakers, on the other hand, are in front of the Houston Rockets 3-0, have suffered no additional injuries and Austin Reaves is inching closer to a return.
Barring a setback, his return is imminent. LA is winning, Reaves is returning and, suddenly, a season that felt like a loss has gotten interesting once again.
So, let’s dive into the win. As always, grades are based on expectations for each player. A “B” grade represents the average performance for that player.
LeBron had a slow start to this game, but he certainly picked up his production as the contest progressed. He had an amazing moment in the first half, lobbing the ball to Bronny and adding another historic moment to this family affair.
In the third, LeBron scored some timely baskets to keep the Rockets away and when Houston took over late in the fourth, Bron poked the ball away from Reed Sheppard and hit a huge three to extend the game to overtime.
He was incredible, and as LA’s leader, he’s found a way to get this team out to a 3-0 lead despite their two other stars being unavailable. This series will be part of his highlight reel in a career filled with iconic moments.
Hachimura was an offensive monster in this game. He started the game a perfect 6-6 from the field and remained impactful the rest of the way. Hachimura is a playoff riser, and he’s been that throughout his Lakers tenure.
Ayton had a rough game and was benched once again during clutch time in the fourth. However, he played in overtime, won a jump ball over Alperen Şengün and had some good defensive possessions against the Rockets’ big.
He needs to be better, but he stepped up in small ways when it mattered late in this game.
The Lakers don’t win this game without Marcus Smart. He scored 21 points, had some huge defensive rebounds and knocked down some clutch free throws in overtime to bury the Rockets.
He’s as tough as nails on the court, and his intensity is something you simply can’t teach. He establishes this team’s identity and makes everyone around him better by his mere presence.
Hayes didn’t dominate in this game, but he had a monster dunk in the first half and had a key stop against Şengün in the closing seconds to extend the game to overtime.
He was a defensive liability late in this contest, but the Lakers won and the timely stop helps the outlook on his overall performance.
LaRavia had some awful misses, was turning the ball over, stumbling on the ground and started to get passive with his shot attempts in the second half. Props to LaRavia for playing through an ankle sprain, but he has been horrendous.
Hopefully, he plays better because the Lakers have a tight rotation and can’t afford to have someone playing this badly.
It turns out that if you play Vando more, his offense improves and his defense remains elite. He had some nice passes in this game and an impressive up-and-under finish at the rim.
I doubt head coach JJ Redick will keep him in the rotation once Luka Dončić and Reaves come back, but he should seriously consider it.
Grade: B
Bronny James
9 minutes, 5 points, 1 foul, 2-2 FG, 1-1 3PT, +4
Bronny had a great moment in the second quarter, converting on a lob from LeBron, and a short shift in the fourth that was okay. The growth he’s had recently is impressive, but it still might be a bit too much playing time for a close contest in the postseason.
Grade: B
Nick Smith Jr.
Smith Jr. appeared only on the final play of regulation and will also not be graded.
JJ Redick
It wasn’t a perfect game for Redick. He couldn’t help the Lakers as they struggled offensively in the third and playing Bronny in the fourth was rough.
Still, he made the right calls in overtime, going with Ayton, and used his timeouts effectively down the stretch. Redick has done a superb job with his game plan throughout this series and Game 3 was no exception.
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 24: Makai Lemon rings the bell before the game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics during Round 1 Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Eagles were busy handling business on Friday night as they navigated Day 2 of the NFL Draft, but the real action was at the Sixers game.
Not only was first-round pick Makai Lemon inaugurated into Philly sports culture by ringing the bell ahead of the Sixers-Celtics game, but he took in the game court-side next to DeVonta Smith. Tank Bigsby was also in attendance, and later in the night, after the Eagles officially traded for Jonathan Greenard, it turns out the former Vikings edge rusher was in the building for the Sixers’ game, too.
John Clark tracked down Jonathan Greenard in record time 😂
Greenard spoke to John Clark about the environment from Philly fans was exactly what he was expecting, and while he doesn’t quite know how he’ll fit into Vic Fangio’s scheme, he called the DC a genius and said they’ll figure it out.
It’s always cool to see the connection between the Philly sports teams, and there’s nothing like a handful of Eagles — new and old — taking in some playoff basketball together, surrounded by the same fans who will be cheering for them in a few months.
HOUSTON — LeBron James scored 29 points, including a tying 3-pointer with 13 seconds left in regulation, Marcus Smart had eight points in overtime and the Los Angeles Lakers took advantage of a Houston Rockets team missing Kevin Durant for a 112-108 win Friday night to take a 3-0 lead in the Western Conference first-round series.
The Lakers rallied from a six-point deficit with under 30 seconds remaining and can sweep the series Sunday night in Houston.
Los Angeles opened overtime with a 6-2 run, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Smart to take a 107-103 lead. Alperen Sengun made a basket for Houston before Smart made two free throws to push the lead to 109-105 with 52 seconds left.
Smart made two free throws with 35.5 seconds to go to make it 111-105. Reed Sheppard made a 3-pointer to get Houston within three with less than 30 seconds left in overtime, but Smart made 1 of 2 free throws to push the lead to 112-108.
Smart added 21 points and 10 assists, and Rui Hachimura added 22 points for the Lakers.
Even with Durant out for a second game in this series — this time with a sprained ankle after missing Game 1 with a knee injury — the Rockets were in position to close out the game after James had consecutive turnovers that Houston turned into a 101-95 lead.
Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points and 16 rebounds. Amen Thompson added 26 points and 11 rebounds.
The Lakers led by as many as 15 early, but were down six in the fourth before Smart was fouled on a 3-point attempt with 25.4 seconds to go after a Houston turnover and made all three free throws to get the Lakers within three.
James, who had 13 rebounds, then stole the ball from Sheppard and his 3-pointer tied it at 101-all with 13.1 seconds to go in the fourth.
The Rockets had a chance to take the lead after that, but Sengun’s 7-footer was off. James grabbed the rebound and called a timeout. He grabbed the inbounds pass and had a chance to win it at the buzzer, but his 3-point attempt bounced off the rim to send it to OT.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 24: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics controls the ball against Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers in the fourth quarter during game three of the Eastern Conference first round playoffs at Xfinity Mobile Arena on April 24, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Celtics defeated the 76ers 108-100. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images
2025-26 Sixers Bell Ringer season standings: Tyrese Maxey – 22.5 VJ Edgecombe – 16 Joel Embiid – 11.5 Paul George – 8 Kelly Oubre Jr. – 5 Justin Edwards – 4 Andre Drummond – 3 Quentin Grimes – 3 Jared McCain :’( – 3 Dominick Barlow – 2 MarJon Beauchamp – 2 Adem Bona – 1 Porter Martone – 1 Cam Payne – 1 Jabari Walker – 1 Trendon Watford – 1 15th roster spot – 1
The Sixers welcomed the Celtics to Xfinity Mobile Arena on Friday night for a massive Game 3 in South Philly. The teams came in dead locked at a 1-1 series tie after the Sixers stole Tuesday night’s Game 2 in Boston.
This game was highly contested from start to finish as the Celtics got out to a five-point lead after the first quarter behind an early onslaught from three.
The Celtics continued their hot shooting from three into the second quarter, but the Sixers stellar two-point defense kept them in the ball game despite some struggles of their own offensively. The Celtics took a 54-47 lead to the intermission.
The Sixers won their first quarter of the night in the third 27-25 behind a steady dose of Tyrese Maxey and Paul George. The Celtics held just a five-point advantage going to the fourth.
The Sixers took a brief 85-84 lead early in the final frame and the crowd was as raucous as it’s been in years in hopes that maybe this would be a breakthrough moment in this rivalry that has haunted the Sixers so much over the years. The Sixers trailed by just one with two minutes to go before a Jayson Tatum three coming off a Sixers defensive breakdown gave the Celtics a four-point lead. A George bucket with 1:40 to go cut the lead to two yet again. Another defensive breakdown and Pritchard three stretched the Celtics’ lead to five points. After two Sixers free throws that made it a one-possession game, the Sixers forced a miss but an offensive rebound and kick out that led to a Tatum iso three would be the nail in the coffin.
The Celtics went on to take a 108-100 win and a 2-1 series lead.
Tyrese Maxey: 31 points, 6 assists, 2 blocks, 12-for-31 from the field
Tyrese Maxey went out on his shield in this one firing until the bitter end. Maxey hit multiple big momentum swinging shots to keep the Sixers in it all night and even momentarily give them the lead in the fourth. A couple late misses while Boston hit three consecutive threes ultimately buried the Sixers, but not in fault of the efforts of the star guard.
Paul George: 18 points, 5 assists, 3 steals, 7-for-14 from the field
Paul George is still really good at basketball, even if he’s not the explosive near 30-points-a-night scorer he once was at his peak. The Sixers ran a lot of their late game offense through George who either found space for himself or found his teammates for high percentage shots. George is still far and away the best and most impactful defender on this Sixers team, who struggled to contain the Celtics’ perimeter onslaught when George isn’t directly involved in the action.
Dave Portnoy was not amused by the amount of passion from the Amazon Prime Video broadcast booth during Friday’s NBA playoff game between the Celtics and 76ers.
Portnoy was livid by the announcing crew’s enthusiasm during the first-round Game 3 matchup, posting a video on X captioned, “This may be the worse annoucing (sic) crew I’ve ever heard. They are going bananas every shot.”
The firebrand sports personality eviscerated Eric Collins — who is known for his intense calls as the Hornets play-by-play caller — for being too passionate for a game that was still far from being over.
David Portnoy of Barstool Sports hosts The Pool After Dark at Harrah’s Resort on Saturday May 11, 2019 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Tom Briglia
“Dude what are these announcers doing?” Portnoy said in the video as Collins went wild for a 3-pointer by Sixers big man Andre Drummond with just over three minutes left in the third quarter. “They’re acting like it’s Game 7, final shot. It’s an open three, what are we doing?
“Eric Collins, f–king put your d–k back in your pants there’s three minutes. Every shot he’s acting like it’s Game 7 at the horn to win it. This is unnacceptable announcing.”
Eric Collins speaks during the Dell Curry #30 jersey retirement ceremony during the game between the Orlando Magic and the Charlotte Hornets on March 19, 2026 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. NBAE via Getty Images
Collins, who has been the voice of the Hornets for over a decade, has established himself as one of the NBA’s premier announcers for his energy he brings to each game, oftentimes loudly screaming during certain stretches of play.
NBA insider Bill Simmons said earlier this month that the Hornets have the best broadcasts in the league because of Collins.
“He really cares,” Simmons said on his self-titled podcast, “and like somebody will make a shot against them, it’d be two minutes left, they’re down one. And then some f–k up, and somebody will hit a three against them, and he’ll just say some crazy sentence like, ‘Oh, isn’t that a chainsaw on the tibia?’
“He just has this endless thing of crazy comments. The Hornets are hanging on like a hat on a screen door. He’s a ten out of ten.”
