NBA Christmas Showcase Features Rockets-Lakers in Los Angeles LOS ANGELES (Interstat) — A marquee Christmas Day matchup awaits at crypto.com Arena as the Los Angeles Lakers host the Houston Rockets in a Western Conference clash on Thursday. The Lakers (19-8) enter with the better record, but the Rockets (17-9) arrive as one of the league’s most formidable road teams, having played their last eight games away from home. Los Angeles looks to rebound from a deflating 103-88 loss to the crosstown Clippers on Saturday, a game in which LeBron James scored 36 points but the team managed only 88 points overall. James, in his 23rd season, remains the engine for the Lakers. Over his last 10 games, he is averaging 21.8 points, 6.8 rebounds and 6.9 assists, showcasing his all-around impact. His performance will be pivotal against a versatile Houston squad. The Rockets are coming off a heartbreaking 125-124 loss at Sacramento on Sunday, despite a 28-point effort from Alperen Sengun and a 24-point triple-double from Kevin Durant. The player driving Houston’s surge, however, is third-year guard Amen Thompson. Over his last 10 contests, Thompson has averaged 18.7 points, 7.8 rebounds and 6.2 assists, nearly posting a triple-double with 18 points, nine rebounds and eight assists in 45 minutes against the Kings. “He’s the catalyst for everything they do,“ Lakers coach Darvin Ham said of Thompson. “His athleticism in the open floor and his playmaking put constant pressure on your defense.“ This game features a contrast in styles. The Lakers, led by the 40-year-old James, prefer a deliberate half-court pace, while the Rockets, fueled by Thompson’s speed, rank among the league leaders in fast-break points. Containing Houston’s transition game will be a primary focus for Los Angeles. The season series is tied 1-1, with each team winning on its home floor earlier this year. The over/under for Thursday’s game is set at 224.5 points. Following the holiday showcase, the Lakers will host the Sacramento Kings on Sunday. The Rockets continue their lengthy trip with a home game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday.