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While the Spurs’ growth will ultimately be determined in the postseason, the Christmas Day showdown gives them an early test as they look to improve upon last year’s runner-up finish. The game marks the second time in three seasons center Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs have played the Knicks on Christmas, with New York erasing an eight-point fourth quarter deficit in a 117-114 win in 2024.

The Thunder have the league’s best record over the past three seasons (189-57), but that dominance hasn’t translated against the Timberwolves, who have split the regular-season series each season during the span, going 6-6, including 4-2 at home. (h/t Stathead)

The new-look Timberwolves backcourt of LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards can make a forceful statement, while Thunder two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and All-Stars Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren will have even larger targets after Oklahoma City was forced to shed valuable role players during the offseason.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s two offseason suitors meet.

The Celtics welcome the two-time MVP after a high-profile failed pursuit that ultimately fractured their relationship with Jaylen Brown, prompting his trade to the Philadelphia 76ers for Paul George.

Boston will try to put that disappointment behind it with Jayson Tatum fully back from a 2025 ruptured Achilles, while Miami can ensure the C’s won’t soon forget their Antetokounmpo miss by spoiling the holiday in Beantown.

LeBron James, Brown and the rest of the star-studded 76ers travel to Los Angeles for the NBA’s all-time leading scorer’s trip back to Crypto.com Arena after eight seasons in the Purple and Gold. The Lakers took their own swings this offseason, signing center Walker Kessler to a four-year, $184.8M contract and also adding guards Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton and forward Sandro Mamukelashvili on smaller deals in free agency as they enter an era fully built around star guard Luka Doncic.

Unlike in previous instances when James’ departure cratered his former team, Los Angeles should remain in contention this season. It’s hands will be full, however, when the king returns.

Three years ago, a Nuggets-Warriors Christmas Day matchup would have been an excellent centerpiece. In fact, it was. But a 2026 version lacks the same sizzle.

The Warriors in particular raise an eyebrow coming off a 37-45 record and 10th place Western Conference finish, making this the least appealing course on the NBA’s Christmas menu. But Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and Warriors guard Steph Curry are all-time greats and joys to watch (as a neutral observer), so we’ll still be eating well.