Los Angeles Lakers vs Houston Rockets Betting Pick & Prediction for 4/24

The Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets are set for Game 3 of the Western Conference First Round in the NBA Playoffs. The Lakers lead the series 2-0 and aim to extend their advantage at the Toyota Center. This game will be on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 8:00 PM on Amaz.

The Lakers, guided by head coach JJ Redick, have been strong this postseason with a 2-0 record. They ended the regular season with a 53-29 record, placing them first in the Pacific Division. The Rockets, led by head coach Ime Udoka, are looking to bounce back after losing the first two games. They finished the regular season at 52-30, ranking second in the Southwest Division.

Lakers vs Rockets Game Day Info

  • Sport: NBA
  • Teams: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets
  • Venue: Toyota Center
  • Date: Friday, April 24, 2026
  • Betting Odds: Rockets -9.0 (-109), Lakers +9.0 (-113), Rockets MoneyLine -351, Lakers MoneyLine +278, Over/Under 206.5

Los Angeles Lakers Team Preview

The Los Angeles Lakers are heading into their next game against the Houston Rockets. They recently won their last two games against the Rockets. In these games, LeBron James stood out, averaging 23.5 points, 8 rebounds, and 10 assists.

In the postseason, the Lakers are averaging 104 points per game. They are shooting 52.9% from the field, ranking second in the league. Their defense has been strong, allowing only 96 points per game, which is second-best.

The Lakers will be without Luka Dončić due to a hamstring injury. Austin Reaves is questionable with an oblique injury. The projected starting lineup includes Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Deandre Ayton.

Houston Rockets Team Preview

The Houston Rockets have faced challenges in their recent games. They lost both games against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the playoffs. The scores were 101-94 and 107-98, with the Rockets struggling to make their shots.

Kevin Durant is a key player for the Rockets this season, averaging 26 points per game. Alperen Sengün is also contributing with 20.4 points and 8.9 rebounds. Amen Thompson adds to the mix with 18.3 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.

The Rockets have had a tough time with injuries. Steven Adams and Fred VanVleet are out for the season. Kevin Durant is questionable due to an ankle injury, which could affect their performance in upcoming games.

BTB Betting Pick

For the spread pick, consider taking the Lakers at +9.0 (-113). The Lakers have a strong defense, allowing only 96.0 points per game, while the Rockets struggle offensively, scoring 96.0 points per game. The projected score is Rockets 104, Lakers 96, suggesting a closer game than the spread indicates.

For the over/under pick, go with the under 206.5 (-110). Both teams have solid defenses, with the Lakers allowing 96.0 points per game and the Rockets allowing 104.0. The projected total score is 200, which is below the current line of 206.5.