Latest Basketball News

📅January 2, 2026 at 1:00 PM
NBA action heats up on Jan 2, 2026, with key games like Lakers vs Knicks, betting picks for Spurs, Knicks, Bucks, bold trade predictions for Giannis, LaVine rumors, and injury updates.
1

San Antonio Spurs Predicted to Upset Indiana Pacers

Expert picks favor the Spurs to win against the struggling Pacers at 7:00 p.m. EST, citing Indiana's long losing streak and San Antonio's consistent contributions. Odds stand at 1.42 for the outright victory.Source 1 This matchup highlights form disparities in the NBA schedule.

2

New York Knicks Favored Over Atlanta Hawks by 3.5 Points

The Knicks, riding strong home form and recent confidence, are picked to cover a -3.5 spread against a slumping Hawks team at 7:30 p.m. EST. Odds are 1.47, emphasizing New York's wave of success versus Atlanta's losses.Source 1 Key for Eastern Conference positioning.

3

Milwaukee Bucks to Cover -2.5 Against Charlotte Hornets

With Giannis Antetokounmpo back, the Bucks are projected to win by more than 2.5 points over the Hornets at 8:00 p.m. EST, following a recent road victory. Odds at 1.52 make this a steady acca pick.Source 1 Boosts Milwaukee's contention hopes.

4

Bold Prediction: Giannis Antetokounmpo to Be Traded by Bucks

Bleacher Report forecasts a Giannis trade due to Milwaukee's lack of assets, below-.500 outlook, and Damian Lillard's contract burden. No clear contention path without it, spanning multiple seasons.Source 2 Shakes up Eastern Conference dynamics.

5

Oklahoma City Thunder Predicted for 70 Wins in 2025-26

Analysts predict the Thunder will achieve 70 victories this season, building on prior success like their first title. Highlights their heater potential in a competitive West.Source 2 Sets a high bar for regular-season dominance.

6

Lakers vs Knicks NBA 2K26 Live Simulation Underway

A full-game simulation of Los Angeles Lakers versus New York Knicks is live for Jan. 2, 2026, capturing regular-season action. Features stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic in highlights previews.Source 3 Engages fans with virtual matchup insights.

7

Houston Rockets Projected to Dominate Brooklyn Nets

AI analysis predicts Rockets win 127-113 over Nets with 84% probability, driven by elite offense and Durant-Thompson scoring. Sengun's calf status is key uncertainty.Source 4 Underscores Houston's mismatch advantages.

8

Dallas Mavericks Edge Philadelphia 76ers in Close Prediction

Mavs forecasted to win 119-116 at home (84% probability), led by Cooper Flagg's playmaking against Maxey's efforts. Embiid's knee decision critical for Philly.Source 4 Snaps Dallas' losing streak.

9

Boston Celtics to Cruise Past Injury-Hit Sacramento Kings

Celtics predicted 121-102 victory (83% probability) with Brown and White leading, exploiting Kings' absences like Sabonis and LaVine. Defensive pressure forces turnovers.Source 4 Comfortable win amid Tatum's absence.

10

Los Angeles Clippers overpower Utah Jazz in Highlights

Recent full-game highlights from Clippers vs Jazz on Jan 1 show LAC's dominance, with Kawhi Leonard in elite form. AI predicted 122-116 win earlier, hampered by Utah injuries.Source 4Source 5 Extends Clippers' streak.

11

Bucks Eye Zach LaVine in Multi-Team Trade Scenarios

Rumors link Bucks acquiring LaVine from Bulls, sending Myles Turner to Warriors in complex deal involving picks. Aims to keep Giannis content amid trade buzz.Source 6Source 8 Fuels 2026 trade market frenzy.

12

NBA Faces Challenges with Expansion and Investigations in 2026

League eyes Las Vegas and Seattle expansion, partners with EuroLeague clubs amid license deadlines. Ongoing probe into alleged Clippers tampering by Kawhi Leonard looms.Source 2Source 9 Tests NBA integrity and leadership.

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