Kevin Durant emphasized the Rockets’ focus and urgency after a 119-96 Christmas Day victory over the Lakers. “It was a tough road trip for us. So, we wanted to come out here, play with assistant urgency for 48 minutes,” Durant said. “I thought we had some loss throughout the games throughout this road trip which lost us some games. So we wanted to play a 48-minute game tonight.”
Durant highlighted the significance of Christmas Day basketball for both veterans and first-time participants. “Just taking opportunity, realize the majority of the basketball world is watching you tonight and it’s a true honor to be here on Christmas Day,” he said. “Some of the greats of the game played on this day. Take pride in it and tonight [Amen Thompson] came out and did that.”
The Rockets star credited his team’s collective effort for maintaining control throughout the game. “We wanted to play a 48-minute game tonight,” Durant said, emphasizing the importance of consistent focus after struggles earlier in the road trip. Houston led by 14 after the first quarter and never trailed, eventually extending their advantage to 23 in the third.
Durant also reflected on his own experience in the league and the special nature of Christmas Day games. “Just being in this league for this long, having so many people support the game of basketball on the holiday… I’m grateful for all these people that came out tonight and glad we put a show on for them,” he said, marking his 19th season and 13th Christmas Day appearance.
Amen Thompson led the Rockets with 26 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, while Durant added 25 points and nine assists, ending a two-game skid. Houston’s dominance on the boards was led by Alperen Sengun with 12 rebounds, helping the Rockets win the rebounding battle 48-25.
The Lakers struggled despite Luka Doncic’s 25 points and LeBron James’ 18, combining for just 4 of 11 from three-point range and nine of the team’s 16 turnovers. Austin Reaves did not return after scoring 12 in the first half due to a sore left calf.
Durant’s remarks reflected the Rockets’ focus on both effort and taking advantage of the national stage. “It’s a true honor to be here on Christmas Day,” he said. “Take pride in it.” Houston improves to 18-10 and will host Cleveland on Saturday, while the Lakers face Sacramento on Sunday.
