Latest Basketball News

đź“…December 22, 2025 at 1:00 AM
NBA's packed Monday slate features key matchups like Thunder's dominance and Pelicans-Mavs, amid injury updates, betting trends, and league anti-tanking reviews.
1

NBA Daily Lineups Set for December 22 Slate

Multiple NBA games are scheduled for Monday, December 22, 2025, including Charlotte Hornets at Cleveland Cavaliers at 7:00pm ET, Indiana Pacers at Boston Celtics at 7:30pm ET, and Dallas Mavericks at New Orleans Pelicans at 8:00pm ET. Projected lineups and player statuses are available for teams like the undefeated Oklahoma City Thunder (25-3) hosting at 9:30pm ET. How to watch details provided for Pelicans vs. Mavericks.Source 1Source 5

2

Oklahoma City Thunder Remain Undefeated at 25-3

The Thunder boast an impressive 25-3 record heading into their 9:30pm ET home game on December 22. Projected lineup includes key starters ready for action against Utah Jazz. Their dominance positions them as a top contender this season.Source 1

3

Detroit Pistons Strong at 21-6 Before West Coast Clash

Pistons (21-6) face a tough 10:00pm ET matchup at Golden State Warriors (13-15). Projected lineup features multiple guards, signaling a fast-paced backcourt battle. Recent form keeps them in playoff contention.Source 1

4

Kevin Durant Powers Houston Rockets Surge

Kevin Durant is averaging 26.3 PPG on 57.1% FG and 83.3% 3P% over the last 7 days for Houston. AI projections favor Rockets heavily in recent matchups due to offensive efficiency. Durant's impact creates mismatches against depleted rosters.Source 2

5

Sacramento Kings Struggle on Five-Game Losing Streak

Kings face shooting woes and injuries like Sabonis out until January in recent games. AI predicts blowout losses against teams like Houston (HOU 120 - SAC 93, 84% win probability). DeMar DeRozan cooling down at 18.4 PPG.Source 2

6

New York Knicks Favored Over Injury-Hit Miami Heat

Knicks projected to win 107-99 (83% probability) at home against Heat, exploiting Miami's injuries (Rozier out until February, Herro out). Brunson’s scoring and balanced attack key factors. Home defense limits Heat options.Source 2

7

NBA Reviews Anti-Tanking Measures Including Draft Lottery Changes

League announced renewed review of policies to curb tanking, including draft lottery modifications and pick protections. Aimed at teams like Wizards, but critics say it favors big markets. Shams Charania reported on December 19.Source 6

8

NBA Tweaks Injury Reporting Rules Amid Prop Betting Concerns

NBA updated injury reporting protocols and seeks changes to prop betting controls. Reminded teams of requirements on Friday to ensure transparency. Aims to maintain integrity in betting markets.Source 7

9

Betting Trends Highlight Overs for HOU-SAC and Others

Top projections favor OVER 222.5 for Houston-Sacramento (+3.5 to +4.2 per ratings). Other overs include TOR-BKN 215.5 and MIL-MIN 226.5. Systems match plays under for MIA-NYK.Source 4

10

Fade Systems Target Wizards and Timberwolves Spreads

Betting systems recommend fading Washington (+15.5 vs SAS) after upsets and Minnesota (-11.5 vs MIL) due to divisional bounce-backs. Trends show poor ATS records in such spots since 2021.Source 4

11

Golden State Warriors Recent Highlights vs Suns

Warriors faced Phoenix Suns in recent full game highlights from December 20, focusing on 3rd quarter action. Prepares them for December 22 matchup vs Detroit Pistons. Standings update as of December 21 available.Source 3

12

Zion Williamson Leads Pelicans Past Pacers Recently

Pelicans defeated Indiana Pacers 128-109 with Zion Williamson scoring 29 points. Sets stage for December 22 home game vs Dallas Mavericks. Live stream and TV details released.Source 5