As the NBA prepares for a jam-packed Monday schedule ahead of Christmas Eve, fans are in for a treat. The league will host 14 games, featuring 28 out of the 30 teams, making it an ideal day for fantasy basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike. With such a comprehensive lineup, almost every player on each team’s roster will be available, minimizing the need for streamers. Notable matchups include potential duels between Joel Embiid and Victor Wembanyama, Donovan Mitchell facing his former Jazz team, and RJ Barrett possibly returning to New York to face his old Knicks squad if he recovers from illness.
A Look at Key Matchups and Player Performances
In the vibrant autumn air of December, several players have been standing out. Dillon Brooks of the Houston Rockets has emerged as a dual-threat, scoring 53 points over his last two games. In his past six appearances, he has averaged 18.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.0 three-pointers, and 1.3 steals per game. Meanwhile, Dereck Lively II of the Dallas Mavericks has been a defensive force, nearly averaging a double-double with 9.6 points and 9.4 rebounds while contributing 2.5 blocks and steals per game in seven December contests. Larry Nance Jr., filling in for the injured Onyeka Okongwu of the Atlanta Hawks, has also shone, averaging 14.7 points and 9.0 rebounds in his last three outings.
From a betting perspective, Victor Wembanyama looks promising with odds set at over 23.5 points (-120). Fresh off a historic performance where he scored 30 points and recorded 10 blocks, Wembanyama has averaged 29.0 points in his last five games. LaMelo Ball, who sat out Friday due to a calf injury but is expected to play fresh on Monday, faces the Rockets and could score over 29.5 points (-140) given his recent form of scoring at least 31 points in six of his last games.
Other intriguing matchups include the Bucks and Bulls under 231.5 points (-105), with Milwaukee’s improved defense likely to keep scores low. Similarly, the Timberwolves and Hawks are projected to stay under 224.5 points (-110), as Minnesota has tightened its defense significantly. Cade Cunningham of the Pistons has become a reliable scorer-distributor, averaging 25.8 points and 12.5 assists in his last six games.
Looking at specific games, the Houston Rockets travel to Charlotte to face the Hornets in a matchup where the Rockets are favored by 6.5 points. The Cavaliers host the Jazz with Cleveland leading by 15.5 points. Boston takes on Orlando with a 10.5-point advantage, while San Antonio visits Philadelphia with the 76ers favored by 5.5 points. The Timberwolves and Hawks meet in Atlanta with Minnesota leading by 3.5 points. Brooklyn challenges Miami, with the Heat favored by 10.5 points. Toronto visits New York, with the Knicks favored by 13.5 points. The Bucks and Bulls clash in Chicago with the Bucks leading by 2.5 points. LA Clippers face the Grizzlies in Memphis, with the home team favored by 5.5 points. Oklahoma City welcomes Washington with the Thunder heavily favored. Portland travels to Dallas, where the Mavericks lead by 10.5 points. Phoenix takes on Denver with the Nuggets favored by 4.5 points. Indiana meets Golden State with the Warriors leading by 5.5 points. Finally, Detroit visits Los Angeles, with the Lakers favored by 5.5 points.
Each game promises thrilling action and significant fantasy contributions, setting the stage for a memorable night of basketball before the league takes a break for Christmas Eve.
The extensive slate of games on this busy Monday not only provides ample entertainment but also underscores the competitive nature of the NBA. For fantasy managers, it offers a unique opportunity to maximize points with so many players available. From a spectator’s standpoint, witnessing emerging stars like Wembanyama and established veterans like LaMelo Ball deliver high-level performances makes for captivating viewing. As we approach the holiday season, this packed schedule serves as a reminder of the NBA’s ability to provide excitement even during festive times, ensuring fans remain engaged and entertained.