The Los Angeles Lakers look to solidify their lead in the 2026 NBA playoff first-round series against the Houston Rockets in Game 3 on Friday. After winning both home games as underdogs, the Lakers hold a 2-0 series lead.

Kevin Durant returned for the Rockets in Game 2, scoring 23 points, but it wasn’t enough for Houston to secure a split. Meanwhile, the Lakers will continue without Luka Doncic (hamstring) and face uncertainty with Austin Reaves (oblique), who is questionable after missing the first two games. Durant is also listed as questionable due to a new ankle injury.

Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. ET at the Toyota Center in Houston, where the latest odds favor the Rockets by 8.5 points, with an over/under set at 207.5 total points.

The SportsLine Projection Model has simulated the matchup 10,000 times, achieving over $10,000 in betting profit for $100 players on top-rated NBA picks over the past eight-plus seasons. Currently, the model boasts a 24-9 record (73%) on its top-rated NBA spread picks this season.

Key betting lines include:

• Rockets vs. Lakers spread: Rockets -8.5 at FanDuel
• Over/Under: 207.5 points
• Money line: Rockets -338, Lakers +268

The model predicts that the total points will exceed 207.5, with LeBron James expected to lead the Lakers with 26.6 points, while Durant is projected to score 27.5 points for the Rockets. Overall, the teams are anticipated to combine for 219 total points, making the Over a compelling option for bettors.

For more detailed predictions and insights, fans can visit SportsLine for exclusive picks on the matchup.