Overview
- ESPN's Shams Charania reported Dončić should return against the Rockets if his pregame workout proceeds without issue.
- The Lakers' injury report lists Dončić and Jaxson Hayes as questionable, Rui Hachimura as probable, and Gabe Vincent as out.
- Dončić exited the Clippers game with a lower‑leg/calf contusion and missed the subsequent loss to the Suns.
- Los Angeles has dropped two straight and has struggled in games Dončić missed, heightening the importance of his availability.
- If he plays, Dončić is expected to debut his Jordan Luka 5 signature shoe during the Christmas matchup.