This Christmas Day matchup features a Western Conference battle between the Los Angeles Lakers (19-9) and the Houston Rockets (17-10), with both teams looking to break two-game losing streaks. The Lakers welcome back Doncic (averaging 34.1 points), forming a potent trio with James and Davis. Their home win rate stands at 63.6%. The Rockets, while possessing key players, face injury concerns, including the possible absence of VanVleet (season-ending injury) and three other players. Their away record in the last seven games is six losses. This will be the 44th meeting between James and Durant, and the health of key players and their form on the day will be crucial. The Rockets have strong arguments for a victory on Christmas Day. Despite recent away defeats, they boast significant advantages: a league-leading average of 48.9 rebounds and 16.4 offensive rebounds, along with Sengun's all-around performance (23 points, 9.3 rebounds, 6.9 assists), which is expected to dominate the Lakers' vulnerable interior defense. Durant, at 37 years old, maintains a 50% field goal percentage and a 60% true shooting percentage, making his unstoppable mid-range shot a nightmare for the Lakers, who rank 23rd in the league in defensive efficiency. The Rockets have a mature defensive system, with team-wide rotations and aggressive switching. Smith's help defense and rim protection provide a solid foundation for the team. The Rockets won their first game against the Lakers this season. ESPN forecasts a 61.5% win probability for the Rockets. Given the Lakers' offensive focus and defensive imbalances, the Rockets should leverage their key player advantages and interior dominance to secure a win and end their away game slump. Match recommendation: Houston Rockets -2.5