NBA: Knicks, Spurs, Warriors, Rockets, Nuggets shine on Christmas Day

NBA Christmas Day once again delivered drama, star power, and statement wins, highlighted by late-game heroics in New York and an all-time masterpiece from Nikola Jokic in Denver.

Knicks Rally Late, Stun Cavaliers at MSG

The New York Knicks saved their best for last, erasing a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter to escape with a thrilling 126–124 comeback win over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden.

Jalen Brunson rose to the occasion with 34 points, matching Donovan Mitchell shot-for-shot in a duel worthy of the holiday spotlight. Cleveland appeared in control after three quarters behind Mitchell’s 34-point, seven-rebound, six-assist performance, but New York’s defensive pressure and timely baskets fueled a late surge capped by a decisive closing stretch.

The win strengthened the Knicks’ hold near the top of the Eastern Conference standings while snapping Cleveland’s momentum on the road.

Spurs Continue Thunder Domination

San Antonio made it three straight wins over Oklahoma City this season with a convincing 117–102 road victory, once again frustrating one of the West’s elite young teams.

De’Aaron Fox led the way with 29 points, setting the tone early as the Spurs jumped out fast and never let the Thunder settle. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 22 points and six rebounds, but Oklahoma City struggled to match San Antonio’s pace and physicality in the second half.

The result further reinforced the Spurs’ emergence as a legitimate playoff threat in the loaded Western Conference.

Warriors Control Mavs Behind Balanced Effort

Golden State leaned on depth and defensive execution to cruise past Dallas, 126–116, in front of a festive Chase Center crowd.

While rookie Cooper Flagg impressed with 27 points and six rebounds for the Mavericks, the Warriors countered with poise and ball movement. Jimmy Butler III flirted with a triple-double, posting 14 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists, anchoring Golden State’s offense and setting the tempo throughout.

The win kept the Warriors firmly in the West playoff picture as they continue to blend veteran leadership with emerging talent.

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It’s the most wholesome day of hoops all year

NBA Christmas Day is here pic.twitter.com/DbgeDxYL31

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) December 25, 2025

Rockets Overpower Lakers in Physical Win

Houston sent a message with a dominant 119–96 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, controlling the game from start to finish.

Kevin Durant paced the Rockets with 25 points and eight assists, dictating the offense and punishing mismatches. Luka Dončić matched Durant’s scoring output for the Lakers with 25 points and seven assists, but Los Angeles struggled to generate stops or sustain runs against Houston’s relentless pressure.

The Rockets’ win highlighted their growing consistency and defensive edge against marquee opponents.

Jokic Delivers Christmas Classic in OT Thriller

The night’s defining performance belonged to Nikola Jokic, who authored one of the greatest Christmas Day games in NBA history as the Denver Nuggets outlasted the Minnesota Timberwolves, 142–138, in overtime at Ball Arena.

Jokic was unstoppable, pouring in 56 points, grabbing 16 rebounds, and dishing 15 assists in a performance that showcased his complete dominance. Anthony Edwards countered with a sensational 44-point effort of his own, pushing the defending champions to the brink before Denver prevailed in the extra period.

The win reaffirmed Denver’s championship pedigree, while Jokic’s stat line instantly entered the league’s holiday lore.

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