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We're previewing all eight Christmas Day games across two sports with picks, predictions, storylines and more.
This matchup highlights a heated rivalry, especially between young stars Victor Wembanyama (averaging 24.4 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 3.3 BPG against Holmgren) and Chet Holmgren. Wembanyama, coming off the bench due to injury, is predicted to score 40 points, proving the Spurs are not intimidated by the Thunder's strong record. The best bet favors Spurs +9.5.
The Lions, aiming to recover from back-to-back losses, are motivated to finish the season strong. The Vikings will focus on helping Justin Jefferson reach 1,000 receiving yards despite recent struggles. Detroit faces potential playoff elimination, while Minnesota is already out. Betting trends show the Vikings are 3-0 ATS recently, against the Lions' 1-5 ATS.
This game features Klay Thompson's return to San Francisco with the Mavericks and rookie Cooper Flagg's breakout performances, including multiple 30+ point games. The Warriors, with fringe contention aspirations, need to accumulate wins, and are predicted to make at least 18 3-pointers. A strong bet is Flagg over 20.5 points given his recent scoring surge.
Both teams enter with recent struggles, with the Lakers facing significant injury issues. The matchup is an important test for the Lakers' playoff picture, especially with LeBron James's consistent scoring on Christmas Day. Predictions include both James and Durant scoring over 30 points, with a strong bet on James over 19.5 points due to his December scoring groove.
The Broncos are focused on securing the AFC's No. 1 seed, requiring wins in their final two games, while facing a Chiefs team led by third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun in his first NFL start. The Chiefs have struggled with first-half scoring this season. A bold prediction sees Broncos QB Bo Nix rebounding with a QBR over 75 against Kansas City's blitz-heavy defense. Betting has a historically low over/under of 36.5 for a Chiefs home game.
This game examines the Timberwolves' ability to perform against strong competition, especially after a comeback win against the Thunder. It revisits their intense rivalry with the Nuggets, who previously eliminated Minnesota in the 2024 playoffs. Despite Denver's home-court advantage, they've had recent struggles at Ball Arena. Anthony Edwards is predicted to lead all Christmas Day scorers, with a strong bet on Jamal Murray over 31.5 total points + assists.
Once considered Eastern Conference finalists, the Cavaliers have sputtered due to injuries and inconsistent play, while the Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson (averaging 32.3 points in recent games), are finding their rhythm. Donovan Mitchell is expected to have a high-scoring game (over 35 points). A strong bet is Brunson over 29.5 points, given his recent hot streak and performance in big games.
Eliminated from playoffs, the Cowboys are driven by pride and the chance to achieve a 5-1 division record. The Commanders, also eliminated, need to address their significant turnover issues against a dominant Dak Prescott (26-4 career record against them). The Commanders have historically allowed high points to Prescott. A bold prediction is for Cowboys TE Jake Ferguson to get at least seven receptions. Betting shows the Commanders as one of the worst ATS teams.