In a stunning display of talent, the Los Angeles Lakers have unveiled two unsung heroes who could reshape their playoff destiny. Gabe Vincent and Dorian Finny Smith exploded onto the scene in last night’s nail-biting 104-98 victory against the Houston Rockets, combining for a jaw-dropping 40 points and hitting an astounding 12 of 24 from three-point range. Their shooting prowess accounted for a staggering 75% of the team’s total threes, igniting the Lakers’ offense when they needed it most.
Vincent, coming off the bench, was a force, scoring 20 points in just 24 minutes while shooting 46.2% from beyond the arc. His efficiency was off the charts, boasting a true shooting percentage of 67.2%. Meanwhile, Finny Smith matched him step for step, also netting 20 points with an incredible 87.5% true shooting percentage. Together, they transformed the game, propelling the Lakers to an impressive plus-18.6 net rating when they shared the court.
This was no ordinary night; it marked the first time since 2020 that two Lakers bench players hit at least six threes each in a single game. Their impact was palpable, with the Lakers outscoring the Rockets by nearly 19 points per 100 possessions during their minutes on the floor. Beyond their offensive fireworks, their defensive presence was equally crucial, helping to hold Houston to just 31.2% from three-point range.
The synergy between Vincent and Finny Smith is undeniable. When both players are locked in, the Lakers morph into a formidable two-way unit, capable of dominating any opponent. With the playoffs on the horizon, this explosive duo could be the key to unlocking the Lakers’ championship aspirations. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing—could this be the turning point for a team that’s ready to make a deep postseason run? Only time will tell, but last night’s performance has set the stage for something special.