UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers celebrated a significant return to form on Christmas Day, fielding their preferred starting lineup for the first time in weeks during a highly anticipated matchup against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena.
Luka Doncic and Rui Hachimura rejoined the team after recovering from injuries, providing a much-needed boost as the Lakers aimed to shake off a rough patch marked by injuries and inconsistent performances. This marks a pivotal moment as the Lakers strive to regain their competitive edge in the NBA.
In the starting five, Doncic and Hachimura teamed up with Austin Reaves, LeBron James, and Deandre Ayton, returning Reaves to the first unit after a brief stint on the bench due to a calf injury. Lakers Coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of having a stable lineup, stating, “In a perfect world, it gives you just sort of a normal flow in terms of your offensive optionality.”
Despite the positive developments, the Lakers were still short-handed, missing rotation players Jaxson Hayes (left ankle soreness) and Gabe Vincent (lumbar back strain). The team’s recent struggles have reflected their challenging season, with the Lakers currently holding the No. 28 defensive rating in the league since November 23.
Redick noted that the lack of continuity due to injuries has hindered the team’s ability to solidify its defensive identity, saying, “It’s hard to judge… when you have continuity, you can kind of capture what you’re trying to do.”
In an exciting twist, former Laker Dorian Finney-Smith made his debut for the Rockets after missing the first 27 games of the season due to offseason ankle surgery. Finney-Smith, who joined Houston from the Brooklyn Nets, is set to add depth and experience to the Rockets as they face the Lakers.
Finney-Smith previously averaged 7.9 points and 3.6 rebounds per game during his time with the Lakers, where his contributions often went beyond the box score. Coach Redick expressed his admiration, stating, “Everybody knows how fondly we feel about Doe… he’s a player who drives winning without having to take 15 shots.”
The Lakers, eager to capitalize on their strengthened lineup, are focusing on building momentum as they look to navigate the remainder of the season. With the festive spirit in the air, fans are hopeful that this Christmas Day clash will mark the turning point for the team.
As the game unfolds, all eyes will be on the court to see if the Lakers can harness this renewed energy and secure a much-needed victory against the Rockets.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this thrilling matchup continues to develop.
