Rockets crush Lakers: total domination in Los Angeles, J.J. Reddick furious

The Houston Rockets spoiled the Lakers’ Christmas by cruising to a 119-96 victory at Crypto.com Arena. A demonstration of collective strength that confirms the Texans’ ambitions this season, against Lakers in crisis with a third consecutive loss.

Crushing physical dominance on the boards

The game was decided where it hurts: under the basket. Houston literally smothered Los Angeles with 46 rebounds versus only 25 for the Lakers, giving them 21 additional possessions. This physical dominance translated to a 13-shot advantage for the Rockets, who shot 54% with 25 assists.

From the opening tip, the Rockets imposed their physical game by pounding the paint and multiplying second-chance opportunities. Houston quickly built a 12-point lead (22-10) thanks to an excellent Amen Thompson, before leading 37-25 after the first quarter.

The Thompson-Durant duo makes the difference

Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant were the Lakers’ executioners. Thompson finished with 26 points on 12/19 shooting, 7 rebounds and 5 assists, bringing constant pressure through his physical impact. Durant played the luxury metronome with 25 points, 9 assists and 4/6 from three-point range, punishing every defensive read.

Alperen Sengun completed this trio with a double-double of 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Jabari Smith Jr. added 16 points. Tari Eason proved valuable on defense with 4 steals and 2 blocks, illustrating the Rockets’ bench depth.

Austin Reaves reinjured, Lakers sink

The evening turned into a nightmare for the Lakers when Austin Reaves didn’t return after halftime, bothered by a left calf issue. Before his exit, he had scored 12 points in 15 minutes. The franchise announced he would undergo an MRI, raising fears of an extended absence.

Despite 25 points from Luka Doncic and 18 points from LeBron James, the Lakers lacked offensive support. Rui Hachimura lived a nightmare with 0 points on 0/6 shooting, while Deandre Ayton grabbed only 2 rebounds despite his 10 points. This historic matchup featured two players with over 73,600 combined career points, unprecedented in NBA history.

Houston didn’t even need a perfect game to win: just a serious, physical game without mercy, confirming their status as serious contenders in the West. A performance that frustrated Lakers coach J.J. Reddick, who was furious after the game.

« I won’t tolerate another 53 games of this… Saturday’s practice is going to be UNCOMFORTABLE for some players »

– JJ Redick is PISSED 👀 pic.twitter.com/sFO9nt4sp7

— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) December 26, 2025