The 2025-26 NBA regular season has an exciting Christmas Day lineup, featuring nonstop basketball action from noon to 10:30 p.m. ET. Here are some key matchups and storylines to keep an eye on as fans settle in for the holiday games.
1. Knicks vs. Cavaliers
The New York Knicks are ready to face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the early game at noon ET. This year, they’re a different team after winning the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup. Last Christmas, they lost to the Spurs, but now they have momentum. Jalen Brunson, who scored 38 points in a previous Christmas game, is a player to watch. Coach Mike Brown has made significant changes to the team, utilizing their younger players effectively.
The Cavaliers are struggling, sitting at seventh in the East, largely due to injuries, including a key absence in Evan Mobley. But Donovan Mitchell continues to shine, averaging over 30 points a game this season.
2. Spurs vs. Thunder
3. Stars in Action
Christmas Day also features renowned stars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry. Curry will face the Mavericks’ rookie phenom, Cooper Flagg, marking their first meeting this season. Flagg recently made history by scoring 40+ points at a young age, shattering records previously held by LeBron.
Fans are eager for the showdown between James and Durant, who last played each other on Christmas in 2018. James leads their Christmas matchups with a 3-1 record. This game could be a pivotal moment for both teams as they chase championship dreams.
4. Timberwolves vs. Nuggets
The final game of the day features the Minnesota Timberwolves facing the Denver Nuggets. They previously had a thrilling double-overtime encounter, where Nikola Jokić shined with 61 points. Jokić continues to break records, recently surpassing Alex English for most 30-point games in Nuggets history. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards, averaging 28.7 points, continues to elevate his game.
As fans gear up for Christmas, the NBA promises thrilling matchups and big moments, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Source link
4 key storylines ahead of Christmas Day
