Story perspectives

Lakers 2-0, Over 206.5 Points Forecast; Thunder Favored

4/25/2026

Summary

Lakers Lead

The Los Angeles Lakers lead the Houston Rockets 2-0 as Game 3 approaches on Friday, April 24, 2026.
SportsLine’s model grades the Lakers-Rockets Game 3 total over 206.5 points an “A,” with 68.4% of simulations hitting the over.
The Oklahoma City Thunder also sit 2-0 over the Phoenix Suns, with Game 3 set for Saturday, April 25, 2026, and are ranked by FanDuel as the top championship contender.

Summary

Lakers Surge

The Lakers’ secret code—LeBron James’ leadership, JJ Redick’s defense, and role-player scoring—propelled them to a 2-0 series lead.
Redick’s plan double-teamed Kevin Durant, limiting him to three points and forcing nine turnovers in Game 2.
Bronny James entered Game 3, hit a three-pointer and an alley-oop from his father, creating the first father-son duo in NBA postseason history.
Kevin Durant’s ankle sprain was confirmed hours before tip-off on April 24, 2026, keeping him out of Game 3.

History

Historical Context

The 1995 ALCS marked the first father-son pairing in a major league championship when Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. helped the Seattle Mariners defeat Cleveland, a series that featured a record 22 home runs and drew 12.3 % of U.S. TV households. In 2026, LeBron and Bronny James repeat the feat for the Lakers, echoing that earlier milestone.

1 of 3

Lakers Lead

The Los Angeles Lakers lead the Houston Rockets 2-0 as Game 3 approaches on Friday, April 24, 2026.
SportsLine’s model grades the Lakers-Rockets Game 3 total over 206.5 points an “A,” with 68.4% of simulations hitting the over.
The Oklahoma City Thunder also sit 2-0 over the Phoenix Suns, with Game 3 set for Saturday, April 25, 2026, and are ranked by FanDuel as the top championship contender.

1 / 3