Lakers defied all odds in first round, but can they do it again: ‘Written off’
The Lakers advanced to the second round of the playoffs after defeating the Rockets 98-78 in Game 6, overcoming a 3-0 series lead that had slipped to 3-2. Despite losing key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves late in the season, the team rallied with strong performances from LeBron James, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton. Now facing the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder, the Lakers have gained confidence from their improbable first-round victory.
- ▪The Lakers defeated the Rockets 98-78 in Game 6 to clinch their first-round series after holding Houston to fewer than 80 points.
- ▪LeBron James scored 28 points, with seven rebounds and eight assists, leading all scorers for the fourth time in the series.
- ▪Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart played crucial defensive roles, while Austin Reaves returned from injury to contribute in Game 6.
- ▪The Lakers overcame the loss of top scorers Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves late in the regular season.
- ▪Coach JJ Redick praised the team's character, noting they were written off weeks ago but persevered to win the series.
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NBA Lakers defied all odds in first round, but can they do it again: ‘Written off’ By Melissa Rohlin Published May 2, 2026, 10:04 a.m. ET The Lakers did it. They clawed. They scrapped. They refused to give up. The team that was counted out has reached the second round of the playoffs after clinching their first-round series against the Rockets with a 98-78 win in Game 6 on Friday in Houston. 6 LeBron James led the Lakers to a series-clinching Game 6 victory over the Rockets by finishing with 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. NBAE via Getty Images What they went through over the last month transformed them, making them ready for their date with the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Before everything went wrong for them, they had no chance. Now they do.
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