Christmas Day in the NBA has become more than just a showcase of basketball’s biggest stars—it’s a tradition that doubles as one of the most exciting betting slates of the year.
With marquee matchups, national television exposure, and playoff-caliber intensity, the holiday lineup always brings a full day’s worth of opportunities for Christmas NBA betting.
12:00 PM ET — Cleveland Cavaliers vs. New York Knicks
- Spread: Cavaliers +6.0 (−110) | Knicks −6.0 (−110)
- Moneyline: Cavaliers +205 | Knicks −245
- Total: Over 238.0 (−110) | Under 238.0 (−110)
The Knicks and Cavaliers meet for the third time this season, with the series tied 1–1. Cleveland dominated the first matchup behind efficient perimeter shooting, while New York evened things up thanks to second-chance points and a strong defensive rebounding performance.
Both teams rely heavily on their backcourts—Donovan Mitchell leading Cleveland’s scoring burst, and Jalen Brunson controlling pace for New York. Expect a slower tempo with heavy emphasis on half-court execution and rebounding battles.
2:30 PM ET — San Antonio Spurs vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
- Spread: Spurs +9.0 (−105) | Thunder −9.0 (−115)
- Moneyline: Spurs +300 | Thunder −400
- Total: Over 236.0 (−110) | Under 236.0 (−110)
Oklahoma City has taken both meetings from San Antonio this season, winning by double digits each time. The Thunder have consistently exposed the Spurs’ young defense with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s pace control and scoring balance.
San Antonio’s youthful core has had flashes of offensive creativity, especially Victor Wembanyama anchoring their rim protection, but turnovers and late-game execution have cost them. For San Antonio to compete, they’ll need improved floor spacing and composure in transition.
5:00 PM ET — Dallas Mavericks vs. Golden State Warriors
- Spread: Mavericks +8.5 (−110) | Warriors −8.5 (−110)
- Moneyline: Mavericks +275 | Warriors −350
- Total: Over 228.0 (−110) | Under 228.0 (−110)
The Mavericks lead the season series 1–0 after topping Golden State in a December thriller. Luka Dončić outdueled Stephen Curry with clutch shot-making and elite pick-and-roll reads, while Dallas’ defense disrupted Golden State’s ball movement by switching effectively on the perimeter.
The Warriors, though, have improved their bench scoring since then and will look to use their pace and spacing to open cleaner looks. Expect a tactical battle defined by guard creativity and defensive versatility.
8:00 PM ET — Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers
- Spread: Rockets −3.0 (−110) | Lakers +3.0 (−110)
- Moneyline: Rockets −150 | Lakers +130
- Total: Over 228.5 (−110) | Under 228.5 (−110)
The Rockets hold a surprising 2–1 advantage over the Lakers this season, winning both home matchups with defensive aggression and fast-break efficiency. The Lakers took the lone contest in Los Angeles, leaning on Anthony Davis’ size and interior dominance.
Houston’s young guards have challenged the Lakers’ slower transition defense all year, while LeBron James continues to exploit mismatches against Houston’s less experienced wings. This rematch could hinge on the Rockets’ ability to contain Davis without fouling.
NBA sportsbooks have forecasted this game as the most closely contested of the day.
10:35 PM ET — Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Denver Nuggets
- Spread: Timberwolves +3.5 (−110) | Nuggets −3.5 (−110)
- Moneyline: Timberwolves +135 | Nuggets −160
- Total: Over 239.0 (−110) | Under 239.0 (−110)
Minnesota and Denver have split their four meetings this season, each team winning twice at home. The Timberwolves’ defense has given Nikola Jokić trouble when Rudy Gobert controls the paint and closes passing lanes.
At the same time, Denver’s offensive rhythm shines when Jamal Murray pushes pace alongside Jokić’s playmaking. Anthony Edwards’ perimeter scoring remains a significant factor, particularly when Minnesota needs isolation offense late. With both teams familiar and evenly matched, this series feels like a playoff precursor.
If that’s not enough action to fulfill gamblers’ needs tomorrow, Christmas Day NFL betting is also on tap with three games that run from midday to primetime.
