The Houston Rockets travel to face the Los Angeles Lakers on December 25, 2025 (Christmas Day), at Crypto.com Arena. The game will be broadcast on ABC at 8:00 PM. This is an early-season game, and both teams aim to improve their standings in the Western Conference.
The Rockets, led by head coach Ime Udoka, hold a record of 17-10. The Lakers, under head coach JJ Redick, have a record of 19-9. Both teams are coming off two-game losing streaks, making this game an important one for both sides.
Houston Rockets Team Preview
The Houston Rockets have had a tough stretch recently, with losses against the Los Angeles Clippers and Sacramento Kings. In the game against the Clippers, they fell 128-108, despite shooting 50% from the field. Their recent win came against the Denver Nuggets, where they secured a 115-101 victory.
Kevin Durant has been a key player for the Rockets, leading the team with 25.2 points per game. Alperen Sengün also contributes significantly with 23 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. However, Sengün’s status is uncertain due to a calf injury, which could impact the team’s performance.
The Rockets rank third in the league with 120.5 points per game. They excel in rebounding, leading the league with 48.7 rebounds per game. Despite their strong offensive performance, they struggle with injuries, including Fred VanVleet being out for the season.
Los Angeles Lakers Team Preview
The Los Angeles Lakers have faced a challenging stretch in their recent games. They lost to the Phoenix Suns by 24 points with a score of 132-108. Earlier, they fell to the Los Angeles Clippers by 15 points, ending at 103-88. However, they secured a victory against the Utah Jazz with a score of 143-135.
On the season, the Lakers score an average of 117.7 points per game. They rank second in field goal percentage at 49.9%. The team struggles with rebounds, grabbing only 41.8 per game, which ranks 25th in the league.
Luka Dončić leads the Lakers with 34.1 points per game, but he is currently questionable due to a calf injury. LeBron James contributes 20.4 points per game. Rui Hachimura, with a probable status, averages 13.3 points per game and might play in the upcoming game.
Betting Prediction
The Houston Rockets have an edge in this game. They score 120.5 points per game, which ranks them third in the league. This strong offense can take advantage of the Lakers’ defense, which allows 117.4 points per game.
The Rockets also have a good defense, allowing only 112.7 points per game. This is better compared to the Lakers’ defense. The Rockets can limit the Lakers’ scoring, making it hard for them to keep up.
Another reason to pick the Rockets is their strong rebounding. They are first in rebounds per game, while the Lakers rank 25th. This gives the Rockets more chances to score and control the game. Enjoy Xmas Hoops!
- Pick: Rockets -2.5
