The Los Angeles Lakers are enjoying a smooth run this season as they continue to build momentum in the Western Conference. They have a strong 19-9 record.
They now turn their attention to a high-profile Christmas Day game against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena, which is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Both teams are fighting for position in a competitive conference. This makes the injury reports crucial.
How Does the Los Angeles Lakers’ Injury Report Look?
There’s some positive news for Lakers fans. According to the latest updates, LeBron James and Austin Reaves are not listed on the injury report and are expected to suit up for the Christmas game against the Rockets.
Just a few days back, there was some concern regarding Reaves after it was revealed on December 12 by NBA insider Dan Woike that the guard would miss time due to a calf injury. He went on to miss three games and did not play in the games against the Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz, and Los Angeles Clippers. But he finally returned on December 23 in a loss to the Suns.
While Reaves is back on the court and ready to contribute, the Lakers’ injury list is not completely empty. The players who are listed on the injury report are:
- Jaxson Hayes – Questionable (Ankle Issue)
- Luka Dončić – Questionable (Left Leg Contusion)
- Rui Hachimura – Questionable (Groin Issue)
- Gabe Vincent – Out (Back Issue)
Their potential absence could affect the Lakers’ depth and rotation.
If Dončić and Hachimura ultimately do not suit up for Thursday’s game, the Los Angeles squad will have to depend heavily on James and Reaves, who are averaging 20.4 and 27.3 points per game, respectively.
What Is the Condition of the Houston Rockets Squad?
On the other side, the Houston Rockets are entering this matchup with a 17-10 record. However, their injury report also features several key names. The names on the injury list include:
- Dorian Finney-Smith – Out (Ankle Issue)
- Alperen Sengun – Questionable (Calf Tightness)
- Jae’Sean Tate – Questionable (Left Wrist Contusion)
- Fred VanVleet – Out for the Season (Torn ACL)
The availability of these players will play a big role. It will show how competitive the Houston team can remain throughout the night. 17.6 25.2
With some of their usual contributors dealing with injuries, the Rockets are expected to lean on Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant to lead the way against the Lakers. Thompson and Durant are currently averaging 17.6 and 25.2 points per game, and their scoring ability will be vital if Houston hopes to spoil Los Angeles’ Christmas.
This Christmas matchup will mark the first meeting of the season between the Lakers and the Rockets, and if James and Reaves deliver as expected and the Lakers manage to control the tempo, they will have a strong chance to extend their smooth run.
