The Houston Rockets visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, December 23, tipping off at 10:30 p.m. ET. Houston holds a 17-9 record, while Los Angeles struggles at 7-21.
The Rockets enter on a one-game losing streak after a narrow 124-125 loss at Sacramento, following a 115-101 win at Denver. The Clippers ride a one-game winning streak after defeating the Lakers 103-88, rebounding from a 101-122 loss at Oklahoma City.
This season, Houston won the only matchup between the teams, 115-113 at home on December 11.
Houston faces key injuries with Dorian Finney-Smith out after left ankle surgery and Fred VanVleet sidelined for right knee ACL repair.
The Clippers are missing Bradley Beal (left hip fracture), Derrick Jones Jr. (right knee sprain), Chris Paul (not with team), and Ivica Zubac (left ankle sprain).
The Rockets lean on Kevin Durant, who averages 25.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, alongside Alperen Sengun with 23.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists. Amen Thompson contributes 17.5 points and 7.2 rebounds, while Jabari Smith Jr. adds 15.6 points.
Los Angeles relies on James Harden, averaging 25.8 points with 8.2 assists and 5.2 rebounds, and Kawhi Leonard contributing 25.2 points and 6.1 rebounds. John Collins adds 12.5 points and 4.8 rebounds, while Zubac has 15.6 points and 11.1 rebounds when available.
