
Karl-Anthony Towns records a monster double-double with 36 points and 15 rebounds during the Knicks’ 128-125 win over the Hawks. (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)
Enjoy the best of Saturday’s 9-game slate with the NBA.com live blog, featuring all of the meaningful moments, performances, observations, news, notes and highlights.
Saturday’s Final Scores
Sacramento Kings 113, Dallas Mavericks 107
Phoenix Suns 123, New Orleans Pelicans 114
Orlando Magic 127, Denver Nuggets 126
Houston Rockets 117, Cleveland Cavaliers 100
Brooklyn Nets 123, Minnesota Timberwolves 107
Milwaukee Bucks 112, Chicago Bulls 103
Miami Heat 142, Indiana Pacers 116
Utah Jazz 127, San Antonio Spurs 114
New York Knicks 128, Atlanta Hawks 125
Top Performers
- Anthony Black: career-high 38 points (14-24 FG, 7-11 3PM, 3-6 FT) with 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals in win over Nuggets.
- Karl-Anthony Towns: 36 points (8-15 FG, 3-6 3PM, 17-18 FT), 15 rebounds and one assist in win over Hawks.
- Nikola Jokić: 34 points (11-22 FG, 12-13 FT), 21 rebounds, 12 assists and one steal in loss to Magic.
- Jalen Brunson: 34 points (15-29 FG, 4-11 3PM), 3 rebounds and 5 assists in win over Hawks.
- Pascal Siakam: 33 points (14-21 FG, 4-6 3PM, 1-1 FT), 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals in loss to Heat.
- Victor Wembanyama: 32 points (12-21 FG, 0-4 3PM, 8-8 FT), 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 blocks in loss to Jazz.
- Onyeka Okongwu: 31 points (10-16 FG, 6-10 3PM, 5-7 FT), 14 rebounds, one assist and one steal in loss to Knicks.
11:58 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
What we know after Saturday’s games
- Giannis Antetokounmpo scores 29 points in his return to help Milwaukee defeat Chicago, 112-103, snapping the Bulls’ 5-game win streak in the process.
- Russell Westbrook makes history twice by passing Magic Johnson for 7th on the all-time assists leaderboard and becoming just the 14th player in NBA history to reach 2,000 steals.
- The Utah Jazz snap San Antonio’s 8-game win streak despite 32 points from Victor Wembanyama in his return to the starting lineup. Keyonte George (28) and Lauri Markkanen (29) combine to score 57 points in the victory.
- Anthony Black records a new career-high with 38 points in a masterful performance during Orlando’s 127-126 win over Denver.
- Nikola Jokić continues to rewrite the record books with his 34-point, 21-rebound, 12-assist masterclass, becoming the first player ever to register 110+ points, 40+ rebounds and 40+ assists in a three-game span.
- Karl-Anthony Towns (36) and Jalen Brunson (34) combine for 70 points in a riveting win over Atlanta, sending the Hawks to a sixth consecutive loss.
- The Suns and Nets each pick up a third consecutive victory in wins against New Orleans and Minnesota, respectively.
11:35 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Thomas returns, Nets win 3rd straight
Cam Thomas drops 30 points (9-15 FG, 3-8 3PM, 9-9 FT) in only 20 minutes off the bench in his first game action since Nov. 5 to help Brooklyn secure the 123-107 win over Minnesota.
Michael Porter, Jr. adds 27 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists in 33 minutes as the Nets win their third straight and move to 7-3 over the last ten contests.
Cam Thomas returned to the lineup and immediately made a winning impact!
🏀 30 PTS
🏀 3 REB
🏀 4 AST
🏀 3 3PMNets win in Minnesota for their third in a row. pic.twitter.com/gqxnFvoMY5
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Anthony Edwards tallies 28 points on 10-for-22 shooting with 7 rebounds, 2 assists and a steal in 35 minutes. The Timberwolves have now lost two in a row after winning five of their previous six games.
11:26 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Heat cruise past Pacers
Miami picks up their second straight win by defeating Indiana 142-116 behind a balanced offensive attack. Six Heat players score at least 15 points, with Andrew Wiggins and Jaime Jaquez, Jr. dropping 28 points each.
Andrew Wiggins and Jaime Jaquez Jr. led another HIGH-POWERED offensive showing 🔥
Wiggins: 28 PTS | 6 REB | 3 AST | 3 STL | 4 3PM
Jaquez: 28 PTS | 6 REB | 3 AST pic.twitter.com/CbC8EmzJoP— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
After trailing by one point at halftime, Miami outscores Indiana 83-56 over the final two quarters.
Pascal Siakam records a game-high 33 points (14-21 FG, 4-6 3PM) with 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals in 34 minutes. Bennedict Mathurin scores 25 points with 6 rebounds and 2 steals in the Pacers’ eighth consecutive loss.
11:18 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Giannis powers Bucks in return
Giannis Antetokounmpo puts up 29 points (10-15 FG, 8-10 FT), 8 rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block in Milwaukee’s 112-103 win over Chicago. It was his first game action since suffering a calf strain on Dec. 3 in a win over Detroit.
Giannis welcomed himself back to the Bucks lineup with a STRONG performance!
💪 29 PTS
💪 8 REBMilwaukee gets the win in Chicago. pic.twitter.com/8NOO11lYOF
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Six Bulls score in double figures, led by Coby White and Nikola Vučević with 16 points apiece. The loss snaps Chicago’s 5-game win streak.
11:12 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
KD cooks for 30 in Rockets’ W
Kevin Durant drops 30 points (11-17 FG) in only 29 minutes to help the Rockets defeat the Cavaliers 117-100. Reed Sheppard pours in 18 points (4 3PM) with 3 rebounds, 8 assists, 5 steals and one block in 32 minutes off the bench.
Kevin Durant put together a COMPLETE offensive game in Houston’s win!
🔥 30 PTS
🔥 4 REB
🔥 7 AST pic.twitter.com/A2xZFVi5Vw— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Jaylon Tyson (23 points, 15 rebounds) and Donovan Mitchell (16 points, 6 assists) lead the way for Cleveland in the loss, their second straight after winning two in a row.
11:05 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Jazz end Spurs’ streak at 8
Utah, led by Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George, defeats San Antonio 127-114 to end their win streak at eight consecutive games. The Jazz pick up their second win in as many nights and move to 12-19 on the season.
Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George lead the way as the Jazz take down the Spurs 😮💨
Lauri: 29 PTS | 5 REB | 3 STL | 5 3PM
Keyonte: 28 PTS | 5 REB | 6 AST | 2 STL | 3 3PM pic.twitter.com/LnhFP804Du— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Victor Wembanyama finishes with a game-high 32 points (12-21 FG, 8-8 FT) with 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 blocks, and Keldon Johnson tallies 27 points on 10-for-15 shooting with 10 rebounds off the Spurs’ bench.
Wemby put together an UNREAL night despite the Spurs loss:
👽 32 PTS
👽 7 REB
👽 5 BLK
👽 1 insane poster slam pic.twitter.com/vce6ykIoWM— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
10:50 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Knicks survive Hawks’ comeback attempt
After leading by as many as 18 points in the second half, New York trailed by one with less than a minute remaining in regulation, 125-124. Timely plays and rebounds from the Knicks’ OG Anunoby help seal their 128-125 victory, including four clutch free throws over the final 48.7 seconds.
Anunoby finishes with 15 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and a block, while Karl-Anthony Towns tallies 36 points (8-15 FG, 17-18 FT) and 16 rebounds. Jalen Brunson pours in 34 points on 15-for-29 shooting and four made 3s.
KNICKS GET THE STOP AND SECURE THE WIN!
THEY MOVE TO 22-9 AND 9-2 IN THEIR LAST 11 👀 pic.twitter.com/9RQ9rGGkNO
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Onyeka Okongwu’s brilliant 31-point, 14-rebound performance with six made 3s wasn’t enough to stop the Hawks from losing their sixth consecutive game. Nickeil Alexander Walker scores 25 points off Atlanta’s bench, while Jalen Johnson drops 20 points, 9 rebounds, 12 dimes and 2 blocks in 37 minutes.
CLUTCH CLAMPS FROM OG
VOTE OG FOR ALL-STAR ‼️ https://t.co/HWjDFYAJeh pic.twitter.com/4HV55KrFME
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) December 28, 2025
10:40 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Suns win third straight
Phoenix defeats New Orleans 123-114 with a balanced effort, as seven Suns score in double figures. Devin Booker finishes with a team-high 20 points to go along with 3 rebounds and 4 assists in 34 minutes, and Jordan Goodwin chips in 16 points and 9 rebounds off the bench.
NON-STOP HUSTLE 😤
Season high in offensive rebounds (22) and second chance points (30) tonight! pic.twitter.com/nb2vl7QsOs
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 28, 2025
New Orleans has Trey Murphy III (24 points, 6 3PM), Zion Williamson (22 points, 2 steals, 2 blocks) and Derik Queen (21 points, 11 rebounds) all reach the 20-point mark, but it wasn’t enough to keep them from dropping their third straight.
10:31 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Hawks take the lead!
Atlanta goes up by one, 125-124, over New York on Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s strip and score on Jalen Brunson with 48.7 seconds remaining.
COUNT IT FOR OG
VOTE OG FOR ALL-⭐️ https://t.co/HWjDFYAboJ pic.twitter.com/dWLOBqD6aa
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) December 28, 2025
Don’t miss the finish on NBA TV!
HAWKS COME BACK TO TAKE THE LEAD AFTER TRAILING BY 18!
WE’RE DOWN TO THE WIRE ON NBA TV 🔥 pic.twitter.com/RXtuIPHilS
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
10:24 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Magic hold off Nuggets in thriller
Anthony Black drops a career-high 38 points and plays elite defense all night to help the Magic close out their 127-126 win against the Nuggets. Desmond Bane goes for 24 points (7-13 FG, 10-10 FT) and 6 assists, while Wendell Carter, Jr. adds 18 points, 7 boards and 4 assists.
HAVE A NIGHT, ANTHONY BLACK!
🔥 38 PTS (career-high)
🔥 6 REB
🔥 5 AST
🔥 2 STL
🔥 7 3PMAnd the clutch stop to get the win over Denver 🔒 pic.twitter.com/AaVC833qOd
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Nikola Jokić continues his case for what would be his fourth league MVP award after dropping 34 points, 21 rebounds, 12 assists and a steal in 38 minutes.
Another night, another RIDICULOUS showing for Nikola Jokić!
😮💨 34 PTS
😮💨 21 REB
😮💨 12 ASTThe 8th 30/20/10 game of his career (2nd-most all-time behind Wilt’s 16) 🤯 pic.twitter.com/2hzZrCX57Y
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Jamal Murray (24 points) and Tim Hardaway, Jr. (20 points) combined for 44 points as Denver’s starting backcourt.
10:15 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Greek Freak at it again
Giannis Antetokounmpo throws the alley-oop down with force, as he’s got a team-high 21 points (8-12 FG) in 23 minutes. Milwaukee leads Chicago 103-98 with less than two minutes remaining in this one.
Freakish. https://t.co/Mh78dyapwZ pic.twitter.com/Us8NFAUeii
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 28, 2025
The Bulls have six players in double figures, but they’ll need someone to step up in crunch time if they want to extend their winning streak to six games.
10:10 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Rockets dominating Cavs
Reed Sheppard shakes Darius Garland before draining a tough floater, giving him 18 points with 8 assists and 4 steals off the Rockets’ bench. Kevin Durant has a game-high 30 points in just 29 minutes, as Houston has a commanding 111-86 lead with 3:39 remaining in the contest.
🗣️ we got a runner! pic.twitter.com/2ukf4Jr3r4
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 28, 2025
Jaylon Tyson has a team-high 21 points and 13 rebounds off the Cavs’ bench.
10:05 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Hawks fighting back in ATL
Trae Young gets the and-1 to fall, giving him 5 points to go with 8 assists in 24 minutes. Jalen Johnson has 15 points, 6 rebounds, 9 assists and 2 blocks, while Onyeka Okongwu has a team-high 23 points in 26 minutes.
Hoop & the harm 🧊 pic.twitter.com/tEV3FitAJm
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) December 28, 2025
Jalen Brunson (25 points) and Karl-Anthony Towns (26 points, 12 rebounds) are fueling the Knicks’ 100-94 lead with 10:46 remaining in the game.
cap doin what he does best 🙌
VOTE JB FOR ALL-STAR https://t.co/HWjDFYAJeh pic.twitter.com/pYTiF5CuSq
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) December 28, 2025
9:59 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Dunks galore in San Antonio
Dylan Harper paints himself a poster to give him 7 points to go along with 11 dimes off the Spurs bench. Victor Wembanyama and Keldon Johnson have 25 points each to lead San Antonio, who trail 104-94 with 10 minutes remaining in the contest.
Harper goes airborne 🛫 https://t.co/mlKNsGFPeO pic.twitter.com/rCmZOLb2Al
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Tap to watch: https://t.co/x9li3LHpeJ
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Lauri Markkanen took off for his own nasty jam in traffic on the other end, as he’s up to 20 points with four made 3s. Keyonte George is the high man for Utah with 22 points, adding 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals in 27 minutes.
Lauri Markkanen splits the defense and throws down the SLAM 💥
Jazz lead the Spurs after 3 on NBA League Pass!
Tap to watch: https://t.co/x9li3LHpeJ pic.twitter.com/Ae9QZx8B86
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
9:53 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Heat drop 39 in 3Q, lead 98-94
Jaime Jaquez, Jr. knocks down a jumper at the third quarter buzzer to give him a team-high 23 points in 21 minutes. Andrew Wiggins chips in 21 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals, while Norman Powell pours in 18 points.
THIS IS THAT DAWG DEFENSE pic.twitter.com/Xji56biROS
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) December 28, 2025
Pascal Siakam has a game-high 29 points on 12-for-16 shooting (4-5 3PM) in 25 minutes, and Andrew Nembhard has 15 points, 3 rebounds and 14 assists in 29 minutes.
Indiana trails by 4 as we head to the final frame, live now on League Pass!
9:42 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Bulls storming back
After trailing by 15 in the first half, Chicago has come back to take a one-point lead over Milwaukee in the third quarter. Josh Giddey finds Isaac Okoro (10 points) for one of his 7 dimes on the night, adding 8 points and 5 rebounds in 19 minutes.
Josh Giddey looks off the defender and delivers the DIME to Okoro 👀
Tap to watch: https://t.co/ueBjG2andL pic.twitter.com/sqoe6jNV1I
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Giannis Antetokounmpo leads five Bucks in double figures scoring with 18 points in 15 minutes, while Ryan Rollins has 13 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and a block.
Ryan Rollins is so smooth and crafty. pic.twitter.com/12UAK0tpLQ
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 28, 2025
The Bulls hold a 79-78 edge with 1:41 remaining in the quarter, live on League Pass!
9:35 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Just throw it to Wemby
Victor Wembanyama is up to 20 points to lead San Antonio in scoring, but they trail Utah 82-71 with four minutes gone in the third quarter.
UP THERE. 👽
📺 @FanDuelSN_SW pic.twitter.com/3drAXpeHiu
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) December 28, 2025
Lauri Markkanen (18 points) and Keyonte George (17 points) are providing the offensive spark for the Jazz.
the steal 😏
the scoop 🤌vote Lau for all-star 🗳️ https://t.co/s4t7IE0P3O pic.twitter.com/fpDVy0UF8m
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) December 28, 2025
9:28 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
KD blasting off in Houston
Kevin Durant drops 23 points in the first half against the Cavs to give the Rockets a 14-point lead going into halftime. He’s up to 25 on 9-for-13 shooting in 22 minutes, as Houston leads Cleveland 68-54 with 8:07 left in the third quarter.
KD in the first half:
🧨: 23 PTS | 8-10 FG https://t.co/Jsna54RQ9q pic.twitter.com/iTYqLeMuwg
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) December 28, 2025
Donovan Mitchell (11 points) and Darius Garland (10 points) are the two Cavs in double figures scoring.
9:23 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Crunch time in Orlando
The Magic lead Denver 121-120 with 1:05 remaining in the contest on League Pass! Get to this game now!
Finished through contact 😤 pic.twitter.com/3mcVXv3DEA
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) December 28, 2025
THE STEAL ON ONE END AND THE BUCKET ON THE OTHER FOR ANTHONY BLACK 👀
WE’VE GOT A THRILLER BREWING! https://t.co/FOWjg8LlKa pic.twitter.com/VLQfPUqNrd
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
9:20 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
KAT drops a DIME
Karl-Anthony Towns (16 points, 7 rebounds) somehow finds a cutting Mikal Bridges (12 points, 4 assists) for the easiest bucket of the night. Jalen Brunson adds 15 points on 7-for-13 shooting to help the Knicks take a 68-55 advantage over the Hawks into the break.
KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS WHAT A DIME 👀
FINDS A CUTTING BRIDGES FOR THE DUNK!
Watch here: https://t.co/5AC4pKaz88 pic.twitter.com/kHYL8hsGTV
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Onyeka Okongwu leads Atlanta with 16 points and 8 rebounds, while rookie Asa Newell chips in 10 points and two made 3s off the bench.
9:15 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Siakam cooks for 24 in 1H
Pascal Siakam drops a game-high 24 points on 10-for-13 shooting (4-5 3PM) in 16 minutes of action. Aaron Nesmith returns for Indiana for the first time since Nov. 13, scoring 9 points with three made 3s in 10 minutes off the bench.
Indiana leads Miami 60-59 after two quarters.
24 PTS in the first half for Pascal Siakam 👀
He’s got the Pacers up over Miami at the break! pic.twitter.com/pDkWny0JVr
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
The Heat are led by Kel’el Ware (13 points), Norman Powell (12 points), Andrew Wiggins (10 points) and Jaime Jaquez, Jr. (12 points).
9:10 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Ant-Man down the lane
Anthony Edwards explodes for the two-handed flush to give him a game-best 13 points (5-9 FG, 2-3 3PM) with 4 rebounds and 2 assists. Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid each have 10 points apiece to help Minnesota hold a 63-62 lead over the visiting Nets at halftime.
🐜🐜🐜🐜🐜
VOTE » https://t.co/PycQA58rBr pic.twitter.com/3CcdG2VC5E
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) December 28, 2025
Nic Claxton and Cam Thomas have 12 points each to fuel Brooklyn, who shoots 59.1% from the field overall through the first half. Thomas is playing in his first game since Nov. 5 while recovering from a hamstring injury.
THROW IT DOWN, NOAH!!! pic.twitter.com/aKJsQRpj5l
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) December 28, 2025
9:02 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Pelicans not going away
Zion Williamson finishes the crafty layup to give him a game-high 20 points to go with 2 steals and 2 blocks. Trey Murphy III adds 19 points with five made 3s in 30 minutes, but New Orleans trails Phoenix 100-91 with 9:24 left in the contest.
ZION. WILLIAMSON. pic.twitter.com/Pku7CkCHlm
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) December 28, 2025
Collin Gillespie (15 points) leads six Suns players in double figures scoring, adding 6 rebounds, 6 dimes and 2 steals in 25 minutes.
8:55 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Giannis can’t be stopped
Giannis Antetokounmpo bullies his way to the rack for three straight dunks, and you can see what it means to the Bucks. He’s got a game-high 15 points on 7-for-9 shooting in only 10 minutes.
GIANNIS WITH THREE STRAIGHT THROWDOWNS. pic.twitter.com/H4NEIZbiR6
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 28, 2025
Coby White leads the Bulls with 9 points on 3-for-4 from long range, but Chicago trails Milwaukee 50-40 with 3:15 left before halftime.
8:49 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
This Spurs connection…
San Antonio fans can get used to seeing this for the next several years. Victor Wembanyama (10 points) and Devin Vassell (10 points) lead the way for the Spurs as they go for nine straight wins tonight.
HARPER TO WEMBY FOR THE ALLEY-OOP!
2025 No. 2 pick finds the 2023 No. 1 pick for the slam 💥
Tap to watch: https://t.co/x9li3LHpeJ pic.twitter.com/bzDDQXtWmT
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Jusuf Nurkić has a game-high 14 points with 3 rebounds and 3 assists, powering a 12-3 run for the Jazz to tie the game at 49 with 5:50 remaining before halftime.
he’s got 14 now 👀 https://t.co/qezWAv86Kf pic.twitter.com/9dlnfDdiC0
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) December 28, 2025
Key doing Key things 🔑
VOTE ★ https://t.co/s4t7IE0P3O pic.twitter.com/IwoC7Q3j4X
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) December 28, 2025
8:44 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Knicks-Hawks in a good one
Ten lead changes and four ties already between the Knicks and Hawks in Atlanta tonight. We’re currently tied at 33 with 10:38 remaining in the second quarter on NBA TV!
one-handed put back SLAM ‼️ pic.twitter.com/ErvwDc9zdi
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) December 28, 2025
Jalen Brunson (11 points) and Onyeka Okongwu (10 points, 3 3PM) lead their respective squads in this Eastern Conference matchup.
8:39 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Rockets start hot at home
In their first home game following a 6-game road trip, Houston jumps out to a 32-24 lead over Cleveland after 12 minutes of play. Kevin Durant has a game-high 14 points on 5-for-7 shooting in 12 minutes.
What a sequence for Tari Eason 😮💨
Block on one end and triple on the other! pic.twitter.com/NdYJLMn80a
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Donovan Mitchell (6 points) and Darius Garland (5 points) lead the charge for the Cavs. Cleveland has turned it over 8 times already, resulting in 13 points for the Rockets.
8:32 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Giannis making a difference early
Giannis Antetokounmpo is up to 7 points and one block in his first game action since Dec. 3. He’s missed Milwaukee’s last eight contests and is looking to turn the tide for the Bucks, who have gone 2-6 during that stretch.
Instant impact.
Giannis rises up for the rejection. pic.twitter.com/OEBPJ6VwRz
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 28, 2025
Chicago is going for a sixth consecutive win tonight, but they’ve got some work to do after one quarter, as they trail 28-26 on League Pass.
8:25 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
McDaniels detonates at the rim
Jaden McDaniels gets the Minnesota crowd on their feet with an unreal poster against the Nets. He’s got 6 points early to help the Timberwolves get out to a 22-15 lead over Brooklyn with 3:59 remaining in the opening quarter.
JADEN PUT HIM ON A POSTER!!!! 😤
⭐️ » https://t.co/vYNQa5N8FU pic.twitter.com/fmIkIFZ6im
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) December 28, 2025
8:18 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Gillespie firing on all cylinders
Collin Gillespie puts up a game-high 15 points (5-8 FG) while shooting a perfect 5-for-5 from 3-point range in 14 first-half minutes. Dillon Brooks and Mark Williams add 10 points apiece to help the Suns grab a 65-55 lead at the break.
Collin Gillespie in the first half:
🔥 15 PTS
🔥 5-5 3PT
🔥 5 AST
🔥 4 REB
🔥 1 STL pic.twitter.com/DnWbfrZBqT— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 28, 2025
Zion Williamson paces the Pelicans with 14 points on 6-for-9 shooting off the bench. Trey Murphy III splashes three 3s to give him 11 points in 17 minutes.
New Orleans led this game 33-32 after the first quarter, but the Suns outscore the Pels 33-22 in the second quarter to jump out to their 10-point advantage.
8:09 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Nuggets lead Magic 62-48 at half
Jamal Murray (16 points) and Nikola Jokić (13 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists) power the Nuggets to a 12-point edge over the hosting Magic at the break. Denver shoots 53.3% from the field while holding Orlando to just 37.0% overall.
The Nuggets close the first half on a 17-5 run while holding the Magic to just one made field goal over the final 4:35 of the second quarter.
The Joker-Murray two-man game picks up where they left off on Christmas!
Jamal finds Nikola for 2⃣ on NBA League Pass. pic.twitter.com/ktzLcdr7WN
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Anthony Black is the only Magic in double figures with 16 points (5-11 FG) with three made 3s, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists in just 11 foul-plagued minutes. He sat most of the second quarter after picking up his third personal.
7:48 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Missi with an emphatic swat
Yves Missi completely erases this layup attempt from Collin Gillespie to end the first quarter in New Orleans. Gillespie is up to 12 points (4-4 3PM), 3 rebounds and 3 assists.
YVES SAID NOPE pic.twitter.com/8m18aumEYv
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) December 28, 2025
Zion Williamson leads the Pelicans with 12 points on 5-for-8 shooting in 9 minutes off the bench. New Orleans trails Phoenix 48-42 with 7:26 remaining before halftime.
7:34 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
WCJ printing posters
Wendell Carter, Jr. puts the defender on a poster after the beautiful feed from Anthony Black.
⚠️ don’t jump ⚠️
AB finds @wendellcarter34 for the slam pic.twitter.com/yrEWaSg1p2
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) December 28, 2025
Black (game-high 15 points) and Jamal Murray (12 points) are trading buckets in the opening frame in Orlando, but it’s the Nuggets who hold a 31-23 edge as we head to the second quarter on League Pass.
JAMAL THAT WAS 🤯
See more Mal moves at All-Star: https://t.co/gjqCkW1mfH pic.twitter.com/IdHcJWhbuq
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) December 28, 2025
7:27 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
And-1 for the birthday boy
Derik Queen, celebrating his 21st birthday today, gets the hoop and harm early in the first quarter against the Suns. He’s up to 2 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists in 8 minutes of play, while Trey Murphy III has a team-high 9 points on 3-for-4 shooting from downtown.
Point-forward Derik Queen initiates his own and-1 😤
Suns-Pelicans underway on NBA League Pass!
Tap to watch: https://t.co/8C9ZvllHPv pic.twitter.com/PJe9j6FcWK
— NBA (@NBA) December 28, 2025
Dillon Brooks has a game-high 10 points for the Suns, and Devin Booker (5 points) and Royce O’Neale (6 points) have 11 combined to give Phoenix a 25-23 lead with 3:12 left in the first quarter.
Have you voted Book for All-Star today?
🌟 Vote Now: https://t.co/K45fdlaq6r pic.twitter.com/mTYFT0AKvP
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 28, 2025
7:16 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Kings outlast Mavs, win 113-107
Russell Westbrook (21 points, 9 assists) and Keon Ellis (21 points, 5 3PM) lead the Kings to a tight victory over the visiting Mavericks. Rookies Maxime Raynaud (19 points, 2 blocks) and Dylan Cardwell (8 rebounds, 2 blocks) play a huge role in Sacramento’s second win over their last eight outings.
BIG DUNK FROM DYL pic.twitter.com/3L3pUzRJT5
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) December 28, 2025
Cooper Flagg finishes with a game-high 23 points (7-13 FG, 3-4 3PM) with 6 rebounds and 5 assists in 34 minutes. P.J. Washington adds 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks, while Klay Thompson chips in 14 points with four made 3s off Dallas’ bench.
The Kings force 21 total Mavs’ turnovers and score 28 points off the miscues.
7:02 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Giannis returns for Bucks tonight
Giannis Antetokounmpo is available for Milwaukee’s game against Chicago tonight. He hasn’t played since Dec. 3, missing the Bucks’ last eight games.
Giannis is AVAILABLE. pic.twitter.com/ToqOM864oY
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 28, 2025
6:45 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
More history for Russ
Congratulations to Russell Westbrook on reaching 2,000 career steals!
Congrats to @russwest44 of the @SacramentoKings for becoming the 14th player in NBA history to record 2,000 STEALS! pic.twitter.com/QfxFbgSWQ9
— NBA (@NBA) December 27, 2025
Westbrook’s Kings lead the Mavs 97-85 with 8:20 remaining in the contest.
6:36 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Kings in control heading to 4th
After Dallas cut their deficit to 3 with 6:05 remaining in the third quarter, Sacramento puts together a 17-9 run to hold an 88-77 edge as we head to the fourth quarter.
K3ON 3LLIS 🎯 pic.twitter.com/jVBGHrZ7Ka
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) December 27, 2025
Keon Ellis is up to 21 points on 8-for-14 shooting with five made 3s, adding 2 steals and 2 blocks in 27 minutes. Russell Westbrook is right there with him, dropping 21 points with five made 3s to go along with 8 assists.
6:23 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Mavs fighting back in 3Q
Dallas is outscoring Sacramento 24-12 in the third quarter, helping the Mavs cut a 15-point halftime deficit to just 3. Cooper Flagg is up to 17 points on 5-for-9 shooting with three made 3s after finishing with just 2 points at the break.
Make way for The Knife 🔪 pic.twitter.com/p5fwE2wBCV
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) December 27, 2025
Russell Westbrook is up to a game-high 18 points and 8 dimes in 20 minutes, while rookie Maxime Raynaud adds 15 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 blocks and a steal.
Russ in his office 🗂️ pic.twitter.com/U1VGg7u3TC
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) December 27, 2025
The Kings lead the Mavs 71-68 with 6:05 remaining in the third quarter, live on League Pass!
6:04 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Kings up big at half
Sacramento outscores Dallas 28-21 in the second quarter to take a 59-44 advantage into halftime. Keon Ellis (13 points), Russell Westbrook (12 points, 6 assists) and Maxime Raynaud (11 points) are the only three players in double figures scoring through 24 minutes of action.
HALFTIME: Kings lead at the break, 59-44.
👑 Keon Ellis: 13 PTS, 5-8 FG
👑 Russell Westbrook: 12 PTS, 6 AST
👑 Maxime Raynaud: 11 PTS, 2 REB pic.twitter.com/1KiwjjAOGG— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) December 27, 2025
P.J. Washington leads Dallas with 9 points on 4-for-8 shooting, while Cooper Flagg puts up 2 points (0-4 FG, 2-2 FT), 3 assists and one rebound in 17 minutes.
The Kings forced 9 Dallas turnovers leading to 12 points, and limit the Mavs to 17-for-47 (36.2%) shooting overall.
5:50 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Mavs-Kings battling in 2Q
P.J. Washington throws down a tough one-handed jam, making him one of three Mavs with 6 points in the first half. Dallas trails Sacramento 49-39 with 3:54 remaining before halftime, live on NBA TV!
P.J. Washington throws it down with one hand 🖐️
Mavs-Kings on NBA TV & NBA League Pass is in the 2Q…
Watch here: https://t.co/Q5vHsutKOs pic.twitter.com/EwAvpgpzcG
— NBA (@NBA) December 27, 2025
5:33 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Kings lead Mavs after 1Q
The Mavericks close the first quarter on a 9-0 run to cut their deficit to 31-23 heading to the second frame. Max Christie leads Dallas with 6 points on 2-for-3 shooting from behind the arc.
Tap to watch on NBA TV & NBA League Pass: https://t.co/Q5vHsutKOs
— NBA (@NBA) December 27, 2025
Keon Ellis leads all scorers with 13 points on 5-for-7 shooting with three made 3s, helping Sacramento shoot 50.0% from the field (13-26 FG).
13 PTS in the first quarter for Keon 🔥 pic.twitter.com/uWVWi7QJ0H
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) December 27, 2025
5:25 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Russ now 7th all-time in assists
Russell Westbrook and the Kings come storming out of the gates at home, grabbing a 27-12 lead over the Mavericks with 4:08 left in the opening quarter.
THE ASSIST THAT MOVED RUSS TO NO. 7 ‼️
Tap to watch: https://t.co/Q5vHsutKOs https://t.co/xwfpYvW9sb pic.twitter.com/6wqXbwcT0M
— NBA (@NBA) December 27, 2025
Russ is up to 5 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists, moving him to 7th on the all-time assists list. Congratulations to ‘Brodie’ on an incredible career accomplishment!
the bank is open for brodie today 🏦 pic.twitter.com/afBkqXm5ig
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) December 27, 2025
4:30 PM / DECEMBER 27, 2025
Welcome to a 9-game Saturday night of hoops!

Nikola Jokić and the Nuggets travel to take on Paolo Banchero and the Magic on League Pass. (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images)
With no Anthony Davis (groin) tonight, rookie Cooper Flagg looks to lead Dallas to a win over the Sacramento Kings, who are battling their own injury bug (5 ET, NBA TV). Zach LaVine (ankle), Domantas Sabonis (knee) and Keegan Murray (calf) will all be in street clothes to tip off Saturday’s NBA TV doubleheader.
Following his Christmas Day gift for NBA fans everywhere, Nikola Jokić and the Nuggets are in Orlando to square off against the Magic (7 ET, League Pass).
Devin Booker and the Suns go for a third consecutive win when they visit the Pelicans (7 ET, League Pass). New Orleans will be aiming to snap a two-game skid.
Two teams going in opposite directions collide in Atlanta when the Knicks and Hawks meet for the back half of Saturday’s NBA TV doubleheader (8 ET). New York is coming off of a thrilling Christmas Day victory while Atlanta hopes to halt their losing streak at five games.
Miami will go for consecutive wins for the first time in a month when they host the Indiana Pacers, losers of seven straight contests (8 ET, League Pass).
Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) is listed as questionable for Milwaukee’s Central Division clash with the red-hot Bulls (8 ET, League Pass). Chicago has rattled off five consecutive wins and sit at 15-15 on the season.
Cleveland will attempt to put their close Christmas Day loss to the Knicks behind them when they take on the Rockets in Houston (8 ET, League Pass). The Cavs dropped both meetings with the Rockets in 2024-25.
Brooklyn looks to make it three wins in a row when they visit Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves (8 ET, League Pass).
To cap our Saturday night of hoops, the Jazz visit the surging Spurs (8 ET, League Pass). Keyonte George hit the game-winner in Utah’s upset win over the Pistons on Friday, while San Antonio looks to extend their current league-best winning streak to nine games.