NBA action heats up on January 4, 2026, with key wins, standout performances by stars like Edwards and Curry, betting predictions, and team valuation surges.
1
Timberwolves Defeat Heat 125-115
Anthony Edwards led Minnesota Timberwolves to victory over Miami Heat with 33 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists. This win highlights Edwards' dominance as the game's best player. Timberwolves improve their standing in the competitive Western Conference.
2
76ers Top Knicks 130-119
Tyrese Maxey shone for Philadelphia 76ers against New York Knicks, scoring 36 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, and dishing 4 assists. Maxey's efficiency continues to impress amid Embiid's potential knee issues. The win boosts Philly's playoff positioning.
3
Hornets Edge Spurs 115-110
Charlotte Hornets upset San Antonio Spurs, with Denny Odia recording a triple-double of 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. Despite Wembanyama's status uncertainty, Spurs fell short at home. Odia's performance marks him as the standout.
4
Mavericks Beat Rockets 110-104
Dallas Mavericks defeated Houston Rockets, led by Anthony Davis' 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists. This result contrasts predictions of Rockets' dominance amid Dallas' injury woes. Davis proved decisive in the upset.
5
Warriors Win Against Jazz 123-114
Stephen Curry powered Golden State Warriors past Utah Jazz with 31 points, 2 rebounds, and 5 assists. The victory aligns with predictions of Warriors as home favorites. Curry's scoring was pivotal in the win.
6
Celtics Overcome Clippers
Boston Celtics defeated Los Angeles Clippers in a tight contest, despite Tatum's Achilles absence and Kawhi's hot streak. Clippers' home edge wasn't enough against Boston's resilience. Jaylen Brown shouldered the scoring load.
7
Giannis Leads First Basket Projections
Dimers projects Giannis Antetokounmpo as top first basket scorer at 20.0% probability for January 4 games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jamal Murray follow closely. Cade Cunningham offers best value at +800 odds.
8
NBA Team Valuations Set to Rise in 2026
Pro sports teams, including NBA franchises, will see higher prices in 2026 due to media deals and limited supply. Recent Timberwolves sale at $1.5B exemplifies surging values. NBA may expand by two teams in 2026.
9
Rockets Sign Tristen Newton to Two-Way Deal
Houston Rockets signed Tristen Newton to a two-way contract while waiving Tyler Smith on January 3. This move bolsters roster depth amid their competitive season. Rockets recently lost to Mavericks.
10
Kings' 2026 Draft Lottery Odds Update
Sacramento Kings updated draft position after 35 games targets top prospects like Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa. Poor record improves lottery chances for high picks. Kings struggle at 8-27.
11
NBA Standings Shakeup from January 4 Results
Multiple upsets including Mavericks over Rockets and Hornets over Spurs alter standings. Thunder lead West at 30-5, Pistons strong at 25-9. Games continue with Pistons vs Cavaliers.