Jan. 5, 2026, 2:44 p.m. CT

The Houston Rockets will soon do battle against a Phoenix Suns squad that’s been one of the NBA’s biggest positive surprises this season. Plenty of people assumed heading into the season that the team would be vying for a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, yet it has exceeded all expectations with star guard Devin Booker leading the way. 

The contest will mark the third game of the new year for the Rockets, and they’ll be hosting the Suns at Houston’s Toyota Center. Folks should expect a rock-fight in the contest between two of the Western Conference’s more physical defensive teams and the game to be decided in the final possessions.

Records, standing, and streaks

At present, the Rockets have a 21-11 record, which puts them in the Western Conference standings’ fifth-place slot.

Dec 5, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) dunks the ball as Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) defends during the second quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The Suns are the owners of a 21-14 record and a two-game winning streak, good enough for seventh place in the Western Conference.

Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!What happened in the last game for each team?

Houston lost to the Mavericks (110-104) on the road.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - NOVEMBER 24: Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets dribbles the ball during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center on November 24, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)

Phoenix beat the Oklahoma City Thunder (108-105) at home.

Injuries

For Houston, Steven Adams (right ankle sprain) is questionable, Alperen Sengun (right ankle sprain) is out and Fred VanVleet (ACL) is out.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 12: Alperen Sengun #28 and Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets celebrate after a game against the Phoenix Suns during the second half at Toyota Center on February 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

For Phoenix, Grayson Allen (right knee injury management) is probable to play, Mark Williams (right knee injury management) is probable, Jalen Green (right hamstring strain) is out and Jamaree Bouyea (concussion protocol) is out.

Probable starting lineups – HoustonAmen ThompsonKevin DurantTari EasonJabari Smith Jr.Clint CapelaDec 5, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) shoots the ball as Houston Rockets guard Aaron Holiday (0) defends during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn ImagesProbable starting lineups – PhoenixCollin GillespieDevin BookerRoyce O’NealeDillon BrooksMark WilliamsHere’s when you should tune in to see the game:Date: Jan. 5, 2026Time: 7:00 p.m. CT TV Channel: Space City Home NetworkLive Stream: Fubo (watch for free)