By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Los Angeles Lakers gained a 2-1 lead in their best-of-seven series opposite to the Houston Rockets with a 112-102 win Tuesday in the NBA bubble set up in Orlando.
LeBron James packed a game-high 36 points and Anthony Davis posted a 26-point, 11-rebound double-double. However, Rajon Rondo with 21 points and nine assists was key in Game 3.
An inspired performance by the 34-year-old floor general, experienced in postseason situations was the difference-maker for the Lakers. He scored eight points in a 10-0 run early in the fourth quarter that generated a separation for his side and also made an assist in the other bucket of that stretch.
A close game up to that point saw the Rockets fall behind. James Harden went for 33 points, nine assists, and nine rebounds, but was not enough for the “W”. Russell Westbrook bounced back with 30 points, eight rebounds, and six assists.
Robert Covington exited early with ten points to his name after colliding with Davis late in the fourth quarter. It looked like a broken nose or possibly a concussion. He stayed on the ground for a couple of minutes. His team was already without Danuel House Jr. (personal). Both players are considered questionable for Game 4.
Back to the winning side, JaVale McGee was cleared for action but lasted only seven minutes after his early exit in Game 2. Dion Waiters was sidelined, therefore questionable for Game 4.
The Western Conference semifinals series will continue Thursday.