The set-up: Houston comes into this game riding a four-game win streak and it's just a 1/2 game behind the Nuggets for the division lead. This latest win streak includes a come from behind victory over the Spurs, followed by victories over the Clippers, Suns and Kings. Golden State has inexplicably won two in a row itself, but I believe the injury depleted home side has a hard time keeping pace with Houston's scoring depth of James Harden and Russell Westbrook on the national stage (note that Harden is 5-2 on X-Mas Day games as well.)

The pick: Additionally note that Houston is 4-0 ATS in its last four on the road and 9-3 ATS in its last 12 vs. clubs with losing records, while GS is only 11-29-1 ATS in its last 41 following a SU victory. D'Angelo Russell has been decent for GS this season, but I think his lack of scoring help dooms the home side tonight. Lay the points, expect a blowout.

10* BEATDOWN on the Houston Rockets.