Latest Injury Status
The NBA's official injury report from December 25, 2025, lists Luka Doncic as probable with a lower left leg contusion for the Lakers-Rockets game. This status confirms he is expected to suit up after missing the previous two games.
ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Doncic will return to the lineup and debut his fifth Jordan Brand signature shoe, adding a promotional flair to his comeback. This aligns with team optimism as Austin Reaves also regains health.
Fans can anticipate the full Lakers triumvirate—Doncic, James, and Reaves—challenging Houston's defense, which has faltered during their recent road trip struggles.
Doncic's Season Stats and Impact
In the 2025-26 season, Luka Doncic leads the Lakers with 34.1 points per game, shooting 45.8% from the field. His scoring prowess has been indispensable, especially with LeBron James nearing 41.
Without him against the Suns, the Lakers crumbled 132-108, underscoring how his playmaking elevates the offense. His return tonight could exploit the Rockets' vulnerabilities amid their four losses in five games.
Doncic's five-time All-Star pedigree positions the Lakers favorably in the Western Conference playoff race, particularly on a high-profile Christmas stage.
Lakers vs Rockets Preview
The Rockets, at 17-10 and sixth in the West, face a tough test with Doncic back. Key players like Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson will need standout efforts to counter LA's firepower.
Tari Eason's potential return from an oblique injury could aid Houston's defense, but the Lakers' reunited core presents a formidable challenge at Crypto.com Arena.
This Christmas Day showdown promises excitement, with Doncic's availability tipping scales toward a high-scoring affair and boosting Lakers' holiday momentum.