Los Angeles Lakers (19 wins, 9 losses, 4th, two-game losing streak) host the Houston Rockets (17 wins, 10 losses, 6th, two-game losing streak). Lakers' Doncic is likely to return (34.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 8.8 assists), alongside James and Rivers. Ayton will protect the paint. At home, they have a 7-4 record. Hachimura is likely to play, with only Vincent out. Their core lineup is almost complete. Rockets will rely heavily on Durant (25.2 points). Sengun's participation is uncertain due to a tight calf. VanVleet's season-ending injury has destabilised their backcourt organisation. They have lost 6 of their last 7 away games, and their rebounding advantage struggles to compensate for their weak defence.