Lakers' Shorthanded Run: Contenders No Matter Odds

0:00It's April 25th. From your city to your ears, this is California News Today, powered by AI. The Lakers just grabbed the three games to zero lead over the Houston Rockets, with a 112-108 overtime win in game 3. Down by 6 with only 30 seconds left, they pulled off a wild comeback. Marcus Smart snagged a back court steal, drew a foul, and sank three-free. Then LeBron James stripped the ball and hit a game-tying three-pointer to force extra time. Without their two top scorers, Austin Reeves and Luca Doncige, the Lakers lean hard on grid. Smart exploded for 21 points, tennisists, five steals, and two blocks, basically owning the night. LeBron added 29 points and 13 rebounds, even lobbing once with son Bronny for a highlight dunk. Players and coaches are calling it pure heart. LeBron said they have no room for mistakes, so every possession counts. Coach JJ Reddick praised how they fought through the mess, playing desperate to stay alive.

1:02This squad's unity feels like the old championship vibes from 2020. Injuries my clear-up soon, with Reeves and Doncige-Ian quick returns, setting up a tough second round against either Oklahoma City or Phoenix. No Kevin Durant in two games helped, but they beaten top teams before doubts creep in. Their belief is rock solid. This short-handed run proves their contenders, no matter the odds ahead.