Rockets dismantle Lakers’ Christmas wish in dominant 119-96 victory

It was Christmas Day at Crypto.com Arena all in attendance wanted what every basketball fan wants on Christmas… a victory. Unfortunately on this festive day, the Los Angeles Lakers ran into the Grinch disguised as the Houston Rockets.

Houston dominated LA 119-96, all the while screaming bah humbug.

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The Rockets’ athleticism and physicality overwhelmed the Lakers from the opening tip. Houston jumped out to a 13-4 run to start the game and never looked back.

They were led by Amen Thompson’s 26 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, as he repeatedly attacked the rim and energized the Rockets’ offense. Kevin Durant also had a fine outing, adding 25 points and eight assists while efficiently picking apart the defense with his signature mid-range game.

For the Lakers, Luka Doncic returned from injury to lead LA with 25 points, while LeBron James managed 18 in a subdued performance during his 20th Christmas appearance. The duo combined for nine of the team’s 16 turnovers, which Houston converted into 23 points.

The loss marked the Lakers’ third straight defeat, all by double digits, dropping them to 19-10 on the season while the Rockets improved to 18-10.

About the Author Published Dec 26, 2025

TITAN FREY

Titan Frey is a dedicated father to three wonderful children, whom he takes immense pride in. His passions include reading, writing, basketball, both playing and watching, and playing chess. Titan spent five years working as a journalist for the basketball website fadeawayworld.net, where he served as editor-in-chief for four and a half years. One of his most notable achievements was interviewing Chuck Cooper III, the son of Chuck Cooper, the first African American ever drafted by an NBA team, and writing a biography that has been praised as the most definitive article about Cooper’s legacy. Titan is the author of more than ten novels and the screenwriter of three produced short films. His newest young adult novel, Echoes of the Hardwood: Braxton Foxworthy’s Time‑Travelling Book Report, blends basketball history with heartfelt storytelling and is now available. Order here: https://a.co/d/bo7BYz1