Not many expected the Los Angeles Lakers to be in a position where they lead the Houston Rockets 2-0 in round one without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Many are saying the series is over, suggesting the Rockets are too far gone to form a comeback and take out LeBron James’ Lakers–Doncic and Reaves or not.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers Los Angeles Lakers prior to a Game One of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena on April 18, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
But LeBron James has been around for too long to allow his guys to hear that kind of talk and buy it themselves.
Following a practice session ahead of Game 3 in Houston, Texas, Lakers center Deandre Ayton revealed LeBron’s message to the team to reporters.
What Is LeBron Telling The Lakers Before Game 3?
GettyLOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 9, 2026: Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) stands alone on the court during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Crypto.com Arena on February 79 2026 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
“LeBron is making it very known not to get comfortable, and JJ as well,” Ayton said. “So, don’t get too complacent. This is the playoffs. If anything happens, we want to handle business just like how we handle business here. Keep everything solid, and we’ll take the stuff we did in the lab over there.”
Fortunately for the seasoned Lakers, the Rockets are on the younger side, lacking postseason experience. While the Oklahoma City Thunder proved last season that experience isn’t everything, this Rockets core hasn’t proven they can reach the second round just yet.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 18: Deandre Ayton #5 and Luke Kennard #10 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after making a three point shot during the second half of Game One of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs against the Houston Rocketsat Crypto.com Arena on April 18, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
The addition of Kevin Durant was expected to help push Houston past the first round. They missed the star forward in Game 1, after Durant suffered a minor knee injury. He returned to make his postseason debut this year in Game 2, but the Lakers shut Durant down in the second half.
If Houston is going to win the series, the Rockets will need more from Durant. James already made it clear to his team and to the fan base that Durant is expected to open up another level to avoid dropping to 0-3 in the series.
The Lakers know they are in an ideal situation, but they seem to be staying level-headed before going into Game 4.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 20: LeBron James #23 and Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrate a play during the second half of their game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Crypto.com Arena on February 20, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Luiza Moraes/Getty Images)
The Lakers vs Rockets Series Continues
Game 4 between the Lakers and the Rockets will resume on Friday with an 8 PM ET tip.
It will be the first of two matchups in Houston. The second game (Game 4) will take place on Sunday, April 26, at 9:30 PM ET.