Rockets! Spurs! Christmas on ESPN!

After a brief hiatus last season, the Rockets are featured once again in the NBA's annual Christmas showcase. They have gone 2-0 on December 25 since James Harden joined the squad, with both games coming on the road. Today the Rockets get to play host in front of a Toyota Center crowd that will hopefully arrive on time.

Houston comes into the game nursing a .500 record and a disappointing season thus far.

Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs sit at 25-5 and only trail the ridiculous Golden State Warriors for best record in the league.

If you want to read more about the Spurs, I suggest you read the Rockets-Spurs preview that I wrote (self-plug!) or you could head over to Pounding The Rock for your Spurs needs.

Most Houston fans are coming into the game expecting a loss, as is Las Vegas, who have the Spurs as 7-point favorites to take the game in Houston.

Predictions? Thoughts? Let us know in the comments!

Keep it civil, and Merry Christmas!