Is LeBron James playing tonight vs the Houston Rockets? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star’s injury report (December 25, 2025) | NBA News
LeBron James will play on Christmas Day. His name does not appear on the Los Angeles Lakers’ injury report for the December 25 game against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena.This will be James’ 20th Christmas Day appearance, the most in NBA history. The game comes at a time when both teams are trying to halt short losing streaks, with Los Angeles and Houston each dropping their last two games. With a national audience and playoff positioning in play, the matchup carries added importance.
LeBron James’ injury report vs the Houston Rockets (December 25, 2025)
LeBron James enters the game fully available. He has shown no physical limitations recently and is coming off a strong outing that included 36 points against the Clippers. The Lakers will again rely on him to lead the offense and manage the game, especially with questions elsewhere in the lineup.James is expected to take on a heavy workload. Houston’s strength on the glass will test Los Angeles, and James’ ability to score, pass, and rebound will be central to how the Lakers handle that challenge.
Lakers dealing with key lineup questions
While LeBron James is cleared, several Lakers remain uncertain. Luka Dončić is questionable with a lower left leg contusion. Jaxson Hayes is also questionable due to left ankle soreness. Rui Hachimura is listed as probable with a right groin issue, while Gabe Vincent has been ruled out because of a back injury.Those decisions could shape the rotation and determine how much pressure falls on James to carry the offense for long stretches.
Rockets monitoring frontcourt health
Houston also enters with injury concerns. Alperen Şengün is questionable with left calf tightness, which could affect the Rockets’ inside presence. Dorian Finney-Smith is also listed as questionable, adding some uncertainty to Houston’s defensive matchups.Even with those questions, the Rockets bring one of the league’s most productive offenses into the game, led by Kevin Durant, who continues to score at a high level.
Christmas Day history adds context
LeBron James has averaged 26.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.2 assists across 19 previous Christmas Day games. He has said he would rather spend the holiday at home, but his presence on this stage has become routine over the years.Also read: Is Luka Doncic playing tonight vs the Houston Rockets? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star’s injury report (December 25, 2025)The Lakers and Rockets tip off at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN, closing the Christmas slate with two veteran stars at the center of the night.
