The Houston Rockets didn’t just show up for their first Christmas Day game since 2019-they made a statement. With a commanding 119-96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on the road, the Rockets sent a message to the rest of the Western Conference: they’re not just here to compete-they’re here to climb.
This one wasn’t just about holiday bragging rights. With the win, Houston (18-10) pulled within half a game of the Lakers (19-10) in a Western Conference race that’s tighter than a fourth-quarter trap. And if playoff seeding comes down to head-to-head matchups or momentum in the second half of the season, this game might end up being a key turning point.
Amen Thompson Shines in the Spotlight
Let’s start with Amen Thompson, who played like a seasoned vet under the bright lights of Christmas Day. The rookie guard led all scorers with 26 points, added 7 rebounds and 5 assists, and shot a blistering 63.2% from the field (12-of-19). His blend of speed, control, and fearlessness getting to the rim gave the Lakers fits all night.
But it wasn’t just Thompson’s stat line-it was the way the floor opened up for him. Credit goes to head coach Ime Udoka’s decision to slide Tari Eason into the starting lineup. Eason brought his usual energy and defensive grit, finishing with 13 points and 4 steals, but more importantly, he helped space the floor just enough to give Thompson the driving lanes he needed to go to work.
Josh Okogie saw his role reduced (just 10 minutes) as a result of the lineup shift, and Dorian Finney-Smith returned to action in a limited capacity, giving Houston a little more length and versatility on the wing.
The Rockets’ Star Power Shows Up
While Thompson was the engine, Houston’s stars did what stars are supposed to do. Kevin Durant was his usual efficient self-25 points on 8-of-14 shooting, including 4-of-6 from deep. He also chipped in 8 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 blocks, showing off the all-around game that’s kept him at the top of the league for over a decade.
Jabari Smith Jr. quietly put together one of his most complete performances of the season. He poured in 16 points on 66.7% shooting and added 7 boards and 2 steals. His confidence as a shooter continues to grow, and when he’s hitting from the outside, the Rockets’ offense becomes that much harder to guard.
Alperen Sengun delivered another double-double-14 points and 12 rebounds-on 71.4% shooting. He did turn the ball over six times, which is something the Rockets will want to clean up, but his presence in the paint and ability to facilitate remain central to Houston’s offensive identity.
Rookie Reed Sheppard also made the most of his minutes, scoring 13 points in just 19 minutes off the bench. He continues to be a spark plug in the second unit, providing instant offense and spacing.
Houston’s Physicality Overwhelms L.A.
This game was won on the glass. Houston dominated the rebounding battle, 58-29, using their size and athleticism to punish the Lakers on both ends. That kind of disparity doesn’t just reflect effort-it’s a sign of a team that’s locked in and imposing its will.
The Lakers, meanwhile, struggled to match Houston’s energy. Luka Doncic put up 25 points and 7 assists, but he also had 6 turnovers and finished a -25 in 34 minutes.
LeBron James added 18 points and 5 assists, but was a -33 in 32 minutes. Those plus-minus numbers tell the story-when the stars were on the floor, the Lakers couldn’t keep up.
Looking Ahead
With their six-game road trip now behind them, the Rockets head back to Toyota Center with momentum on their side. They’ll host the Cleveland Cavaliers (17-15) on Saturday night, a chance to build on this win and continue climbing the Western Conference ladder.
The Rockets are young, athletic, and starting to figure out how all the pieces fit. If Amen Thompson continues to grow into a reliable third option behind Durant and Sengun, this team becomes a real problem.
And if they keep rebounding like this? Watch out.
Houston’s Christmas performance wasn’t just a win-it was a warning.