The Memphis Grizzlies (15-18) head to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers (20-11) in a Western Conference clash that could highlight Memphis’ resilience against a Lakers team aiming to snap a recent skid.

With both squads dealing with injuries, the Grizzlies’ young core may exploit the Lakers’ absences, but Los Angeles’ home dominance and veteran leadership could prevail in what promises to be a competitive affair.

Venue Location

The game will be played at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. This 19,000-capacity venue, home to the Lakers since 1999, is renowned for its star-studded crowds and high-energy atmosphere, though recent attendance has been affected by the team’s inconsistent form.

Tip-off is set for 10:30 PM ET (7:30 PM PT). The matchup will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network and other regional networks, with streaming available via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Injuries are impacting both teams, with the Lakers particularly thin in the frontcourt and backcourt, while the Grizzlies miss key depth pieces.

Memphis Grizzlies: Zach Edey is out (ankle). Scotty Pippen Jr. is out (toe). Vince Williams Jr. is out (knee). Jock Landale is out (calf). John Konchar is out (thumb). Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is questionable (illness). These absences weaken Memphis’ bench and rim protection, likely forcing starters like Santi Aldama to log heavy minutes.

Los Angeles Lakers: Austin Reaves is out (calf). Rui Hachimura is out (calf). Gabe Vincent is out (undisclosed). Adou Thiero is out (knee MCL sprain, at least four weeks). Jarred Vanderbilt is questionable (right leg soreness). The Lakers’ depth is tested, potentially relying on Max Christie and rookies for rotation minutes.

Player Matchups

Absences shift lineups, but core battles could decide the game. Expect the Grizzlies’ athleticism to challenge the Lakers’ experience.

Ja Morant (MEM) vs. D’Angelo Russell (LAL): Morant’s explosiveness (25+ PPG, 7+ APG) faces Russell’s playmaking (18 PPG). Without Reaves, Russell may struggle to contain Morant’s drives.

Desmond Bane (MEM) vs. Dalton Knecht (LAL, filling in): Bane’s scoring (20 PPG, 40% from three) meets Knecht’s emerging defense. This guard matchup could influence perimeter shooting.

Marcus Smart (MEM) vs. LeBron James (LAL): Smart’s tenacity tests James’ all-around dominance (24 PPG, 8 RPG, 8 APG). James might exploit switches for post-ups.

Jaren Jackson Jr. (MEM) vs. Anthony Davis (LAL): Jackson’s shot-blocking (top-5 in blocks) clashes with Davis’ scoring (28 PPG, 12 RPG). Without Vanderbilt or Hachimura, Davis could own the paint.

The Lakers hold frontcourt edges, but Memphis’ guards may create chaos in transition.

Recent Team Forms

The Grizzlies have shown improvement, going 7-3 in their last 10 games with an average of 118 PPG scored and strong rebounding (46.2 per game). Key wins include upsets over contenders, driven by efficient shooting and forcing turnovers, though losses highlight perimeter defense issues.

The Lakers are 4-6 in their last 10, averaging 111.8 PPG while allowing 121.4, reflecting a skid with injuries hampering consistency. They’ve struggled on the road but remain strong at home, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis carrying the load in wins.

Series History

The Lakers lead the all-time series 70-41 in 111 regular-season games.

In recent years, Los Angeles holds a slight edge, winning 43 of 83 total meetings.

This season, the Lakers are 1-0 against Memphis after a 117-112 win on October 31, 2025.

The Lakers are 6-4 in their last 10 home games vs. the Grizzlies. The teams meet again on January 4 in Los Angeles.

Betting Trends

Grizzlies Trends: Memphis is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games and 2-4 SU overall recently. The over has hit in 4 of their last 6, but they’re 4-6 ATS on the road.

Lakers Trends: Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 but 4-1 SU at home recently. The under has hit in 5 of their last 10 games.

Series Trends: In the last 10 meetings, the home team is 7-3 ATS, with the over hitting 6 times (average 220 points).

Game Odds

Memphis Grizzlies                          240.5

Los Angeles Lakers                          – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026

The Oklahoma City Thunder (29-5) travel to San Francisco to face the Golden State Warriors (18-16) in a Western Conference showdown that pits the NBA’s top team against a playoff contender dealing with inconsistencies and injuries.

The Thunder, riding a dominant season, come off a strong performance, while the Warriors seek to rebound from a mixed recent stretch, highlighted by a win over Charlotte but losses exposing defensive vulnerabilities.

Venue Location

The game will be held at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. This 18,064-capacity arena, home to the Warriors since 2019, is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and energetic crowds, though attendance has fluctuated amid the team’s .529 win percentage this season.

Tip-off is scheduled for Friday, January 2, 2026, at 10:00 PM ET (9:00 PM CT / 7:00 PM PT). The game will be broadcast nationally on Prime Video, with local radio options including 95.7 The Game (Warriors) and WWLS 98.1 FM (Thunder), and streaming via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Both teams are navigating absences, with the Warriors particularly hit in their core rotation, potentially forcing adjustments.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Brooks Barnhizer is out (G League two-way). Ousmane Dieng is out (right calf strain). Jaylin Williams is out (right heel bursitis). Ajay Mitchell is questionable (left shin contusion). Isaiah Hartenstein is out (undisclosed). No other major issues reported, allowing the Thunder to maintain their starting lineup depth.

Golden State Warriors: Draymond Green is out (rest). Stephen Curry is questionable (left ankle sprain). De’Anthony Melton is questionable (knee injury management). L.J. Cryer is out (low back strain). These could sideline key veterans, pushing reliance on players like Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski.

Player Matchups

Injuries could alter rotations, but the Thunder’s youth and athleticism may overwhelm Golden State’s experience. Key battles include:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC) vs. Stephen Curry (GSW, if available): SGA’s scoring (28+ PPG) and efficiency face Curry’s three-point prowess (25 PPG, 40% from deep). If Curry sits, Podziemski steps in, potentially giving SGA driving lanes.

Jalen Williams (OKC) vs. Andrew Wiggins (GSW): Williams’ versatility (20 PPG, strong defense) clashes with Wiggins’ athleticism (18 PPG). This wing matchup could dictate transition scoring.

Luguentz Dort (OKC) vs. Klay Thompson (GSW): Dort’s elite perimeter defense tests Thompson’s shooting (15 PPG). Dort might limit Thompson’s open looks.

Chet Holmgren (OKC) vs. Draymond Green (GSW, out): Holmgren’s rim protection (top-5 in blocks) meets a likely Kuminga or Trayce Jackson-Davis. Without Green, Holmgren could dominate rebounds and paint defense.

OKC holds edges in most positions, especially if Curry and Melton are limited.

Recent Team Forms

The Thunder have been unstoppable, going 9-1 in their last 10 games with an average of 118 PPG scored and 102 allowed. Key wins include blowouts over contenders, fueled by efficient shooting (49% FG) and forcing turnovers (15+ per game).

The Warriors are 6-4 in their last 10, averaging 121.6 PPG but allowing 115, with a 132-125 win over Charlotte but losses to top teams exposing inconsistencies. They’ve shot well in wins (48% FG) but struggled with rebounding.

Series History

The Thunder lead the all-time series 148-124 in 272 regular-season games.

In the last 10 meetings, Golden State holds a 6-4 edge, with high-scoring affairs averaging 230 points.

This season, the Warriors won 127-116 on November 10, 2025, but OKC took the most recent on December 2, 2025.

The Warriors are 5-5 in their last 10 home games vs. OKC. The teams meet again on March 7 in Oklahoma City.

Betting Trends

Thunder Trends: OKC is 22-12 ATS overall and 11-6 ATS on the road. They’ve covered in 7 of their last 10 and are 15-2 SU as favorites. The under has hit in 6 of 10 games.

Warriors Trends: Golden State is 15-18-1 ATS and 9-8 ATS at home. They’ve covered 4 of their last 5 but are 4-6 ATS as underdogs. The over has cashed in 7 of 10 recent games.

Series Trends: In the last 10 matchups, the home team is 6-4 ATS, with the over hitting 6 times (average 230 points).

Game Odds

Oklahoma City Thunder                – 8.5

Golden State Warriors                   228.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026

The Sacramento Kings (8-25) travel to Phoenix to face the Suns (19-14) in a Western Conference matchup where the struggling Kings aim to upset a Suns team looking to rebound from a recent road loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

With key injuries hampering both sides, this game could turn on Phoenix’s star power and home-court advantage against Sacramento’s depleted roster.

Venue Location

The game will be held at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona. This 18,422-capacity arena has been the Suns’ home since 1992, known for its vibrant atmosphere and modern facilities, though attendance has been inconsistent during Phoenix’s up-and-down season.

Tip-off is scheduled for Friday, January 2, 2026, at 9:00 PM ET (8:00 PM CT / 6:00 PM PT). The game will be broadcast on NBC Sports California and Arizona’s Family 3TV / Arizona’s Family Sports, with streaming options via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Injuries are a major factor, with the Kings missing multiple starters and the Suns dealing with absences in their backcourt and frontcourt.

Sacramento Kings: Domantas Sabonis is out (left knee partial meniscus tear, expected to miss 4-5 weeks). Zach LaVine is out (left ankle sprain, re-evaluation January 1 but ruled out). Dylan Cardwell is out (G League two-way). Amari Williams is out (G League two-way). Keegan Murray is out (calf). Devin Carter is day-to-day (ankle). Drew Eubanks is out (thumb).

Phoenix Suns: Jalen Green is out (hamstring, re-evaluated in 2-3 weeks). Grayson Allen is questionable (knee). Ryan Dunn is questionable (undisclosed). The Suns have not submitted additional updates, but these issues could affect their perimeter shooting and defense.

Without Sabonis and LaVine, the Kings will rely on backups like Alex Len in the frontcourt and increased minutes for De’Aaron Fox. Phoenix may start Isaiah Livers or adjust with Dunn if Allen sits.

Player Matchups

Projected starters shift due to injuries, favoring Phoenix’s depth. Key battles to watch:

De’Aaron Fox (SAC) vs. Tyus Jones (PHX): Fox’s speed and scoring (25+ PPG) face Jones’ steady playmaking and defense. Without full support, Fox may struggle against Phoenix’s backcourt pressure.

Kevin Huerter (SAC) vs. Devin Booker (PHX): Huerter’s three-point shooting meets Booker’s elite scoring (27 PPG). Booker could exploit mismatches for mid-range buckets if Allen is out.

Harrison Barnes (SAC) vs. Bradley Beal (PHX): Barnes’ veteran presence clashes with Beal’s versatility (20 PPG, strong assists). Beal’s quickness might create open looks.

Keon Ellis (SAC, filling in) vs. Kevin Durant (PHX): Ellis’ defense tests Durant’s dominance (28 PPG, efficient shooting). Durant could dominate the wing without Murray.

Alex Len (SAC) vs. Jusuf Nurkic (PHX): Len steps in for Sabonis against Nurkic’s rebounding (double-double threat). Nurkic’s size may control the paint.

Phoenix holds advantages in scoring and rebounding, especially with Sacramento’s thinned lineup.

Recent Team Forms

The Kings have struggled, going 2-8 in their last 10 games with an average of 111.7 PPG scored and 117 allowed. Highlights include a 113-107 win over Dallas but losses exposing defensive woes, like a recent defeat to Boston on January 1.

The Suns are 6-4 in their last 10, averaging 115.1 PPG while allowing 112, with wins over strong teams but a 129-113 loss at Cleveland on December 31. They’ve improved at home, shooting efficiently (48% FG in wins).

Series History

The Suns lead the all-time series 149-107 in 256 regular-season games.

Phoenix has won 7 of the last 10 meetings, including both this season: 112-100 on November 26, 2025, and 120-116 on October 22, 2025.

The Suns are 6-4 in their last 10 home games vs. the Kings. The teams meet again on March 3 in Sacramento.

Betting Trends

Kings Trends: Sacramento is 15-18 ATS overall and 7-9 ATS on the road. They’ve covered in 5 of their last 6 but are 2-8 SU in their last 10. The over has hit in 6 of 10 games.

Suns Trends: Phoenix is 16-17 ATS and 9-7 ATS at home. They’re 5-0 ATS in their last 5 and 4-1 SU recently. The under has hit in 5 of 10 games.

Series Trends: In the last 10 meetings, the home team is 7-3 ATS, with the under hitting 6 times (average 220 points).

Game Odds

Sacramento Kings            226.5

Phoenix Suns                     – 12.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026

The Portland Trail Blazers (14-20) visit the New Orleans Pelicans (8-27) in a Western Conference matchup that could see the Blazers capitalize on the Pelicans’ ongoing struggles, despite both teams dealing with injuries.

Portland enters after a 124-95 road loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 31, while New Orleans suffered a 134-118 defeat to the Chicago Bulls, extending their woes in a season marked by poor defense and inconsistent play.

Venue Location

The game will be held at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. This 16,867-capacity arena, home to the Pelicans since 2002, features a lively atmosphere but has seen reduced attendance amid the team’s dismal performance this season.

Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET (7:00 PM CT / 5:00 PM PT). The game will be broadcast on KUNP, Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network (GCSEN), and Pelicans+, with streaming available via NBA League Pass and radio on Rip City Radio 620 and WWL 870 AM / 105.3 FM.

Injury Report

Injuries continue to plague both squads, with Portland missing key forwards and New Orleans without several starters, potentially leading to a low-scoring affair.

Portland Trail Blazers: Jerami Grant is out (left ankle sprain). Jrue Holiday is nearing a return but questionable (right calf strain). Scoot Henderson is out (hamstring). Matisse Thybulle is out (thumb). Damian Lillard is out (Achilles). These absences thin Portland’s perimeter defense and scoring options, forcing reliance on younger players like Toumani Camara.

New Orleans Pelicans: Saddiq Bey is questionable (right hip soreness). Hunter Dickinson is out (right foot fracture). Dejounte Murray is out (Achilles, expected back January 13). Herbert Jones is out (ankle). These losses severely impact New Orleans’ backcourt and wing defense, leaving Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram to shoulder more load.

Player Matchups

With injuries altering lineups, Portland’s size could challenge New Orleans’ depleted roster. Key battles include:

Anfernee Simons (POR) vs. CJ McCollum (NOP): Simons’ scoring (20+ PPG) faces McCollum’s experience (18 PPG, efficient shooting). Without Murray, McCollum may handle more playmaking, but Simons’ quickness could create mismatches.

Toumani Camara (POR) vs. Brandon Ingram (NOP): Stepping up for Grant, Camara’s defense tests Ingram’s scoring (22 PPG). Ingram’s length might force turnovers, but Camara could limit drives.

Shaedon Sharpe (POR) vs. Trey Murphy III (NOP): Sharpe’s athleticism clashes with Murphy’s three-point threat (15 PPG, 40% from deep). This wing matchup could influence perimeter scoring.

Deandre Ayton (POR) vs. Zion Williamson (NOP): Ayton’s rebounding (double-double potential) meets Williamson’s dominance (25 PPG, explosive drives). Without Jones, Zion may feast inside, but Ayton’s size could contest at the rim.

Portland holds slight edges in depth, but New Orleans’ stars could exploit gaps.

Recent Team Forms

The Trail Blazers have gone 4-6 in their last 10 games, averaging 112 PPG while allowing 116, with losses highlighting perimeter vulnerabilities but wins showing resilience on the road. Key results include a 139-119 victory over Golden State on October 24 and the recent blowout loss to OKC.

The Pelicans are 5-5 in their last 10, scoring 115 PPG but conceding 122, reflecting defensive lapses amid injuries. Highlights include a 130-125 loss to the Knicks and the recent defeat to Chicago, with Zion’s play providing sporadic boosts.

Series History

Portland leads the all-time series 41-40 in 81 regular-season games.

In the last 10 meetings, the Trail Blazers hold a 7-3 edge, with games often high-scoring.

This season, Portland is 2-0 against New Orleans, including a 125-103 home win on October 27, 2025, and a 105-103 victory on October 25, 2025.

The Pelicans are 4-6 in their last 10 home games vs. Portland. The teams meet again later in the season.

Betting Trends

Trail Blazers Trends: Portland is 14-20 ATS overall and 7-10 ATS on the road. They’ve covered in 1 of their last 5 but are 6-4 ATS as favorites of 0.5-4.5 points. The over has hit in 5 of 10 games.

Pelicans Trends: New Orleans is 9-25 ATS overall and 4-12 ATS at home. They’ve failed to cover in 4 of their last 5 and are 3-7 ATS as underdogs. The over has cashed in 7 of 10 recent games.

Series Trends: In the last 10 matchups, the over has hit 6 times, averaging 228 points. The road team is 6-4 ATS.

Game Odds

Portland Trail Blazers                     – 1.5

New Orleans Pelicans                    244.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026

The Charlotte Hornets (11-22) face the Milwaukee Bucks (14-20) in an Eastern Conference tilt, with the Hornets looking to snap a potential slump against a Bucks team that’s shown flashes but struggled for consistency.

Charlotte enters after a 132-125 home loss to the Golden State Warriors on January 1, while Milwaukee fell 114-113 at home to the Washington Wizards on New Year’s Day, marking their second loss to the Wizards this season.

Venue Location

The game will be held at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This 17,500-seat arena, opened in 2018, is known for its modern design and energetic crowds, serving as the Bucks’ home and a hub for major events.

Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET (7:00 PM CT / 5:00 PM PT). The game will air on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSSE) and FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin (FDSWI), with streaming via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with notable absences, impacting depth and star power.

Charlotte Hornets: Ryan Kalkbrenner is out (elbow). Mason Plumlee is out (groin surgery, at least six weeks). Miles Bridges is a game-time decision (ankle). LaMelo Ball remains sidelined (ankle), and Grant Williams is out (knee surgery). The team has not fully submitted updates, but these injuries thin their frontcourt and playmaking.

Milwaukee Bucks: Taurean Prince is out (neck). Alex Antetokounmpo is out (G League assignment). No other major updates, but the Bucks applied for a Disabled Player Exception for Prince, indicating a longer absence.

These injuries could force Charlotte to rely on backups like Tidjane Salaün in the frontcourt, while Milwaukee may lean on Giannis Antetokounmpo more heavily.

Player Matchups

Without key pieces, matchups favor Milwaukee’s experience. Watch for:

Collin Sexton (CHA) vs. Gary Trent Jr. (MIL): Sexton’s scoring (if stepping up for Ball) faces Trent’s perimeter defense. Trent could limit drives, forcing inefficient shots.

Brandon Miller (CHA) vs. Khris Middleton (MIL): Miller’s emerging offense (20+ PPG potential) meets Middleton’s veteran scoring (18 PPG). This wing battle could influence three-point volume.

Josh Green (CHA) vs. Damian Lillard (MIL): Green’s defense tests Lillard’s playmaking (25 PPG, 7 APG). Lillard might exploit mismatches for pull-ups.

Mark Williams (CHA) vs. Brook Lopez (MIL): Williams’ rebounding clashes with Lopez’s rim protection (top in blocks). Lopez’s spacing could pull Williams out, opening lanes for Giannis.

Milwaukee edges most positions, especially in the paint with Giannis vs. a depleted Hornets frontcourt.

Recent Team Forms

The Hornets have gone 4-6 in their last 10, averaging 112 PPG but allowing 118, with losses like the recent 132-125 to Golden State highlighting defensive issues. They’ve shot 47% FG in wins but struggled with turnovers.

The Bucks are 3-7 in their last 10, scoring 115 PPG but conceding 116, including the 114-113 loss to Washington. They’ve relied on Giannis (30+ PPG recently) but lack focus, going 3-2 in recent home games.

Series History

The Bucks lead the all-time series 72-62 in 134 regular-season games.

In the last 20 meetings, Milwaukee is 13-7.

This season, the Bucks are 2-1 against Charlotte, including a 123-113 win on December 29, 2025.

Milwaukee is 6-4 in their last 10 home games vs. the Hornets. The teams meet one more time this season.

Betting Trends

Hornets Trends: Charlotte is 17-16 ATS overall and 6-10 ATS on the road. They’re 5-1 ATS in their last 6 but 1-4 ATS as underdogs of 2+ points. The over has hit in 6 of 10 games.

Bucks Trends: Milwaukee is 14-20 ATS and 8-8 ATS at home. They’ve covered 3 of their last 5 but are 7-9 ATS as favorites. The under has hit in 6 of 10 recent games.

Series Trends: In the last 10 matchups, the home team is 6-4 ATS, with the over hitting 7 times (average 230 points).

Game Odds

Charlotte Hornets            231.5

Milwaukee Bucks            – 5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026

The Orlando Magic (19-15) travel to face the Chicago Bulls (16-17) in an Eastern Conference matchup that could hinge on injuries, with both teams missing key contributors.

The Magic come off a hard-fought 112-110 road win over the Indiana Pacers on December 31, showcasing their defensive grit, while the Bulls secured a convincing 134-118 home victory against the New Orleans Pelicans in their last outing.

This game highlights Orlando’s strong road play against Chicago’s home resilience amid backcourt woes.

Venue Location

The game will take place at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. This 20,900-capacity arena, home to the Bulls since 1994, is known for its passionate crowds and has hosted numerous high-profile events, though attendance has varied with the team’s middling performance this season.

Tip-off is set for 8:00 PM ET (7:00 PM CT / 5:00 PM PT). The game will be broadcast on CHSN and FDSFL, with streaming available via NBA League Pass and local radio options.

Injury Report

Injuries loom large, particularly for the Bulls’ backcourt and the Magic’s frontcourt depth.

Orlando Magic: Franz Wagner is out (leg injury, no timetable for return). Jonathan Isaac is questionable (left knee soreness). Colin Castleton is out (G League two-way). Jalen Suggs appears available after recent recovery, but the team hasn’t submitted updates on others.

Chicago Bulls: Josh Giddey is out (left hamstring strain, re-evaluated in two weeks). Coby White is questionable (right calf tightness, re-evaluation pending). Zach Collins is out (right 1st toe sprain). Emanuel Miller is questionable (hamstring). Noa Essengue is out (G League). These absences could force reliance on Tre Jones and Ayo Dosunmu in the backcourt.

Without Wagner and potentially Isaac, Orlando may lean on Paolo Banchero for scoring, while Chicago’s depleted guards could open opportunities for Magic drives.

Player Matchups

The Bulls’ injuries shift dynamics, favoring Orlando’s size and defense. Key battles include:

Jalen Suggs (ORL) vs. Ayo Dosunmu (CHI): With Giddey and White sidelined or limited, Dosunmu (averaging ~12 PPG) steps up. Suggs’ defensive intensity (15.4 PPG, strong steals) could pressure Dosunmu, disrupting Chicago’s offense.

Paolo Banchero (ORL) vs. Matas Buzelis (CHI): Banchero’s scoring (24 PPG, 7+ rebounds) faces Buzelis’ athleticism (~10 PPG). This forward matchup may control the paint, where Orlando ranks high in efficiency.

Anthony Black (ORL) vs. Tre Jones (CHI): Black’s emerging playmaking meets Jones’ steady facilitation (recently stepping up amid injuries). Jones could exploit mismatches if Black tires.

Wendell Carter Jr. (ORL) vs. Nikola Vucevic (CHI): Carter’s rebounding clashes with Vucevic’s double-double threat (20 PPG, 10 RPG). Vucevic’s spacing might pull Carter out, but Orlando’s rim protection could limit inside scoring.

Orlando holds edges in most positions due to Chicago’s backcourt issues, potentially leading to a defensive battle.

Recent Team Forms

The Magic have been resilient, going 6-4 in their last 10 games with an average of 110 PPG scored and 108 allowed. Key wins include the recent thriller over Indiana and a 125-120 home victory against Chicago on December 1. Their defense has forced turnovers effectively, but offense dips without stars.

The Bulls are 5-5 in their last 10, averaging 118 PPG but allowing 120. Highlights include the blowout over New Orleans and a 125-120 loss to Orlando earlier. Injuries have hampered consistency, with rebounding a strength but turnovers a weakness.

Series History

The Bulls lead the all-time series 68-62 in 130 regular-season games.

In the last 10 meetings, Chicago holds a 6-4 edge, with games often close and high-scoring.

This season, the series is tied 1-1, with Orlando winning 125-120 on December 1 and Chicago taking 102-99 on October 30.

The Bulls are 5-5 in their last 10 home games vs. Orlando. The teams meet again later in the season.

Betting Trends

Magic Trends: Orlando is 18-16 ATS overall and 9-8 ATS on the road. They’ve covered in 4 of their last 5 but are 3-2 ATS as favorites of 4+ points. The under has hit in 6 of 10 games.

Bulls Trends: Chicago is 16-17 ATS and 8-9 ATS at home. They’ve covered 3 of their last 5 but struggle as underdogs (4-6 SU). The over has cashed in 7 of 10.

Series Trends: In the last 10 matchups, the home team is 5-5 ATS, with the over hitting 6 times (average 225 points).

Game Odds

Orlando Magic                  – 4.5

Chicago Bulls                     233.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026

The Atlanta Hawks (16-19) visit the New York Knicks (23-10) in an Eastern Conference matchup at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks aim to rebound from a narrow 134-132 road loss to the San Antonio Spurs on December 31.

The Hawks enter on a positive note after a convincing 126-102 home win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, but face a tough test against a Knicks team that’s been dominant at home.

Venue Location

The game will be played at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. This iconic 19,812-capacity arena, home to the Knicks since 1968, is renowned for its electric atmosphere and has hosted countless memorable NBA moments, though renovations have modernized its facilities.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET (6:30 PM CT / 4:30 PM PT). The game will be televised on MSG and FDSSE, with streaming options via NBA League Pass and radio broadcasts on 880 ESPN New York and WZGC.

Injury Report

Both teams have key players sidelined or questionable, potentially affecting strategies—New York without a defensive anchor and Atlanta possibly missing their star guard.

Atlanta Hawks: Trae Young is questionable (right quad contusion). N’Faly Dante is out (right knee torn ACL). Obi Toppin is out (right foot stress fracture).

New York Knicks: Josh Hart is out (right ankle sprain). Mitchell Robinson is questionable (ankle).

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If Young sits, the Hawks may turn to backups for playmaking, while the Knicks could start Precious Achiuwa if Robinson is unavailable.

Player Matchups

The Knicks’ star power could overwhelm Atlanta, especially if Young is limited. Key battles include:

Trae Young (ATL) vs. Jalen Brunson (NYK): If Young plays (19.3 PPG, 5.6 APG), his quickness and shooting face Brunson’s scoring efficiency (29.4 PPG, 47.7% FG). Brunson could exploit Young’s defensive lapses for drives.

Jalen Johnson (ATL) vs. OG Anunoby (NYK): Johnson’s all-around game (24.0 PPG, likely high rebounds) meets Anunoby’s elite defense. This forward matchup may dictate transition opportunities.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker (ATL) vs. Mikal Bridges (NYK): Alexander-Walker’s scoring (20.3 PPG) clashes with Bridges’ versatility (16.3 PPG, strong perimeter D). Bridges might force turnovers.

Kristaps Porziņģis (ATL?) vs. Karl-Anthony Towns (NYK): Assuming Porziņģis is on Hawks (per stats), his spacing tests Towns’ dominance (21.9 PPG, efficient shooting). Towns could own the paint without Robinson.

New York holds advantages in scoring and defense, ranking high in efficiency.

Recent Team Forms

The Knicks have been formidable, going 7-3 in their last 10 games with an average of 122.9 PPG, highlighted by wins but capped by the Spurs loss. They’ve shot efficiently (48% FG) and dominated rebounds.

The Hawks are 5-5 in their last 10, including the recent win over Minnesota, averaging around 117 PPG but allowing 115+. They’ve improved defensively lately but remain inconsistent.

Series History

The Hawks lead the all-time series 203-194 in 397 regular-season games.

Over the last two years, Atlanta is 3-4 against New York.

Recent games include a 128-125 Knicks win on December 27, 2025, and a 121-105 Hawks victory on April 5, 2025.

The Knicks are 6-4 in their last 10 home games vs. Atlanta. The teams meet again on April 6 in Atlanta.

Betting Trends

Hawks Trends: Atlanta is 17-18 ATS overall and 9-9 ATS on the road. They’ve covered in 3 of their last 5 but are 2-3 ATS as underdogs of 7+ points. The over has hit in 6 of 10 games.

Knicks Trends: New York is 18-15 ATS and 12-5 ATS at home. They’ve gone 0-5 ATS in their last 5 overall but are strong as favorites (15-4 SU). The over has cashed in 7 of 10.

Series Trends: In the last 10 meetings, the home team is 7-3 ATS, with the over hitting 6 times (avg. 230 points).

Game Odds

Atlanta Hawks                   245.5

New York Knicks               – 7.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026