The Milwaukee Bucks (11-18) visit the Indiana Pacers (6-23) in a Central Division matchup between two underperforming Eastern Conference teams, both mired in losing streaks and dealing with significant injuries. The Bucks, without star Giannis Antetokounmpo, have lost five of their last six games, while the Pacers are on a five-game skid and hold one of the league’s worst records. This game could hinge on perimeter shooting and bench production, as both squads rank poorly in defensive efficiency—the Pacers allow 118.4 points per game, and the Bucks aren’t far behind at 115.2. Earlier this season, the Bucks edged the Pacers 117-115 on November 3, 2025, in Indianapolis.

Expect a low-scoring grind if defenses step up, but trends suggest the over could hit given recent high-total games for both.

Venue Location

Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana. This 18,165-capacity arena has been the Pacers’ home since 1999 and features a passionate fanbase, though attendance has waned amid the team’s struggles this season.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network Indiana (FDSIN) for Pacers viewers and FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin (FDSWI) for Bucks fans, with streaming available on NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Injuries are crippling both teams, with the Pacers particularly shorthanded in the frontcourt and the Bucks missing their MVP-caliber leader, forcing adjustments to smaller lineups and increased reliance on guards.

Milwaukee Bucks:

Giannis Antetokounmpo: Out (right calf strain) – The superstar forward (averaging 30.2 PPG, 11.8 RPG) has been sidelined since December 3, contributing to the team’s slide.

Taurean Prince: Out (neck) – The veteran wing provides spacing (8.4 PPG, 35% 3PT) but remains unavailable.

Khris Middleton: Available – Recently returned from a wrist issue, expected to shoulder more scoring (18.6 PPG).

Indiana Pacers:

Isaiah Jackson: Game-time decision (undisclosed) – The athletic big man’s status is uncertain, impacting rebounding (7.2 RPG).

Ben Sheppard: Out (undisclosed) – Ruled out until at least December 26.

Aaron Nesmith: Out (undisclosed) – Out until at least December 26, weakening perimeter defense.

Obi Toppin: Out (knee) – Sidelined until at least February 2, a major blow to bench energy (12.5 PPG).

Two additional players listed on the report, per sources, but details pending final submission.

The Pacers have six players on their injury list, while the Bucks have two key absences.

Player Matchups

Without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks will lean on guard play to exploit Indiana’s turnover-prone offense (15.6 per game), while the Pacers aim to push the pace at home.

Damian Lillard (MIL) vs. Tyrese Haliburton (IND): Lillard’s scoring (26.4 PPG, 7.2 APG) faces Haliburton’s playmaking (22.8 PPG, 9.5 APG); Haliburton must limit Lillard’s three-point shooting (38%) to keep it close.

Pascal Siakam (IND) vs. Brook Lopez (MIL): Siakam’s versatility (20.5 PPG, 7.8 RPG) tests Lopez’s rim protection (12.2 PPG, 2.1 BPG); Siakam led with 25 points in a recent game.

Andrew Nembhard (IND) vs. Khris Middleton (MIL): Nembhard’s recent assist surge (7 dimes in last game) vs. Middleton’s mid-range game; this could decide bench minutes.

Bench Watch: Bobby Portis (MIL) vs. Bench Unit (IND): Portis (14.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG) could dominate a depleted Pacers frontcourt, especially if Jackson sits.

The Bucks emphasize ball security post-Giannis, while the Pacers focus on transition scoring.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams are in freefall, with the Bucks at 2-8 in their last 10 and the Pacers 1-9, marked by poor shooting and defensive lapses.

Milwaukee Bucks (2-8 in last 10 games, averaging 108.4 PPG scored, 115.2 PPG allowed):

Dec 21: L 105-111 vs. Toronto Raptors

Dec 19: L at Minnesota Timberwolves (part of three-game skid)

Recent trend: Lost three straight and five of six without Antetokounmpo, with a 7-game losing streak earlier in November; offense has dipped to 42% FG in losses.

Indiana Pacers (1-9 in last 10 games, averaging 106.8 PPG scored, 118.4 PPG allowed):

Dec 20: L 113-114 vs. New York Knicks

Dec 18: L at New Orleans Pelicans

Recent trend: 0-5 in last five, including blowouts; turnovers and rebounding issues persist, but a win on December 5 vs. Chicago snapped a prior streak.

Team	Last 5 Games	Key Stat
Bucks	L-L-L-W-L	1-4 road record in stretch, -7.2 point differential
Pacers	L-L-L-L-L	0-5, allowing 122.6 PPG

Series History

The Bucks lead the all-time regular-season series 119-97 in 216 games. Recently, the teams are even at 5-5 in the last 10 meetings, with Milwaukee winning the most recent on November 3, 2025 (117-115). At Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Bucks hold a slight edge in recent years, going 6-4 in the last 10 road games vs. Indiana. The Pacers’ last win over Milwaukee was on March 15, 2025.

Betting Trends

Milwaukee is 12-17 ATS overall but 4-6 as road favorites; Indiana is 10-19 ATS, including 5-10 at home as underdogs. The over has hit in 6 of the Bucks’ last 10 and 7 of the Pacers’ last 10, fueled by defensive woes. Bucks are 1-4 ATS in last five; Pacers 2-3 ATS at home vs. spread. Player props: Damian Lillard over 25.5 points (-110) has cashed in 5 of 7 road games.

Game Odds

Milwaukee Bucks            – 1.5

Indiana Pacers                  218.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The New Orleans Pelicans (8-22) take on the Cleveland Cavaliers (16-14) in an Eastern vs. Western Conference clash, with the Pelicans aiming to extend their surprising five-game winning streak against a Cavaliers team that’s stumbled recently, going 1-4 in their last five. Cleveland has been solid at home (9-6), while New Orleans struggles on the road (2-12). The Cavaliers won their last meeting on November 20, 2025, 128-100 in New Orleans, but the Pelicans’ recent surge, fueled by Zion Williamson’s return to form, could make this competitive.

Expect a focus on interior scoring, as both teams rank in the top 10 for points in the paint, though Cleveland’s defense (allowing 110.5 PPG) gives them an edge over New Orleans’ leaky unit (116.8 PPG allowed).

Venue Location

Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (formerly known as Rocket Arena in some listings), Cleveland, Ohio. This 19,432-capacity arena has hosted the Cavaliers since 1994 and is renowned for its energetic crowds, especially during playoff pushes.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The game will air on FanDuel Sports Network Ohio (FDSOH) for Cavaliers fans, Gulf Coast Sports and Pelicans+ for Pelicans viewers, with national streaming on NBA League Pass and radio on WTAM 1100 / 100.7 WMMS.

Injury Report

Injuries loom large, particularly for Cleveland’s frontcourt depth and New Orleans’ perimeter defense, potentially shifting rotations toward smaller lineups.

New Orleans Pelicans:

Herbert Jones: Day-to-Day (sprained right ankle) – The defensive specialist exited Monday’s game vs. Dallas and won’t return; his status for Tuesday is uncertain, impacting wing defense.

espn.com +2

Dejounte Murray: Out (Achilles) – Expected back after New Year’s, leaving a void in playmaking (averaging 18.5 PPG, 6.2 APG when healthy).

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Trey Alexander: Out (G League – Two-Way) – Minimal impact on rotation.

Cleveland Cavaliers:

Evan Mobley: Out (Grade 1 left calf strain) – Injured in recent win over Wizards; his absence weakens rim protection (11.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG).

Max Strus: Out (foot) – No timetable; his shooting (36% from three) is missed on the wing.

Larry Nance Jr.: Out (calf) – Week-to-week, further thinning frontcourt options.

Chris Livingston: Out (G League – Two-Way) – Not rotation-relevant.

Darius Garland: Available – Recently rediscovering form after a slump, expected to play full minutes (20.4 PPG, 6.8 APG).

Reports indicate both teams’ full lists were not yet submitted as of early morning, but no additional surprises are anticipated.

Player Matchups

This back-to-back for both teams highlights guard play and interior battles, with Cleveland’s perimeter speed clashing against New Orleans’ athletic forwards.

Donovan Mitchell (CLE) vs. Brandon Ingram (NOP): Mitchell’s scoring explosion (27.6 PPG) faces Ingram’s length (22.4 PPG, 38% 3PT); Ingram must contain Mitchell’s drives to keep the game close.

Zion Williamson (NOP) vs. Jarrett Allen (CLE): Williamson’s recent rhythm (24 PPG in streak) tests Allen’s rim protection (13.2 PPG, 10.5 RPG); foul trouble could swing this, as Zion thrives in transition.

Trey Murphy III (NOP) vs. Darius Garland (CLE): Murphy’s shooting (16.8 PPG, 40% 3PT) vs. Garland’s playmaking; Garland’s recent uptick could exploit Murphy’s defense.

Bench Watch: CJ McCollum (NOP) vs. Ty Jerome (CLE): McCollum’s veteran scoring (19.5 PPG) off the bench could target Jerome, who dropped 29 in their last matchup.

Cleveland emphasizes ball movement (26.4 APG), while New Orleans pushes pace during their streak.

Recent Team Forms

The Pelicans have turned a corner with a five-game win streak, averaging 118.4 PPG, while the Cavaliers are 1-4 in their last five, allowing 122.6 PPG defensively.

New Orleans Pelicans (5-5 in last 10 games, averaging 112.6 PPG scored, 114.8 PPG allowed):

Dec 22: W vs. Dallas Mavericks (exact score not listed, but part of streak)

Dec 20: W vs. Indiana Pacers

Recent trend: Riding a five-game surge after a dismal start, with improved shooting (47% FG) and fewer turnovers (13.2 per game).

Cleveland Cavaliers (4-6 in last 10 games, averaging 115.2 PPG scored, 113.4 PPG allowed):

Dec 22: W/L vs. Charlotte Hornets (back-to-back context)

Dec 19: L 125-136 vs. Chicago Bulls

Recent trend: Struggling with a 1-4 skid, including home losses, but strong rebounding (48.2 per game) persists.

Team	Last 5 Games	Key Stat
Pelicans	W-W-W-W-W	5-0 streak, +8.2 point differential
Cavaliers	L-W-L-L-L	1-4, -6.4 point differential

Series History

The all-time series favors the Pelicans slightly at 26-23 in 49 regular-season games. Cleveland holds a 3-game winning streak, including a 128-100 victory on November 20, 2025. The Cavaliers are 7-3 in the last 10 meetings overall, with a 13-11 edge at home. New Orleans last won on January 16, 2023 (113-103).

Betting Trends

Cleveland is 14-16 ATS overall but 8-7 at home; New Orleans is 20-10 ATS, including 9-5 as road underdogs. The over has hit in 18 of 30 Pelicans games (60%) and 15 of 30 for Cleveland, driven by high-scoring affairs. Pelicans are 5-0 ATS in their win streak; Cavaliers 1-4 ATS in last five. Player props: Zion Williamson over 24.5 points (-115) has hit in 4 of 5 recent games.

Game Odds

New Orleans Pelicans                    245.5

Cleveland Cavaliers                        – 9.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Chicago Bulls (14-15) travel to Atlanta to face the Hawks (15-16) in a quick rematch just two days after their high-scoring thriller on December 21, where the Bulls edged out a 152-150 victory. This Eastern Conference clash pits two middling teams against each other, with Chicago riding a wave of offensive firepower but defensive vulnerabilities, while Atlanta seeks revenge at home amid injury woes and inconsistent play. The Bulls have won the last two meetings this season, but the Hawks hold a slight edge in overall talent when healthy. Expect another shootout given both teams’ fast paces and poor defenses.

Venue Location

State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA. This 18,118-seat venue has been a mixed bag for the Hawks this season, where they’ve posted a 5-9 home record, struggling to capitalize on home-court advantage.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET. The game will air on CHSN (Bulls feed) and FanDuel Sports Network (Hawks feed), with national streaming available via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with significant absences, but Atlanta’s list is longer and more impactful, potentially hampering their depth in this rematch. Reports are as of December 22 evening.

Chicago Bulls:

Out: Noa Essengue (left shoulder surgery), Trentyn Flowers (G League – two-way), Emanuel Miller (G League – two-way).

Probable: Ayo Dosunmu (right thumb sprain – played through it on Dec 21).

Questionable/Downgraded: Coby White (status downgraded after Dec 21 game; potential rest or minor issue from the high-minute outing).

Notable Notes: The Bulls are relatively healthy otherwise, with Matas Buzelis and Zach LaVine stepping up in recent games. No major new injuries reported from the Dec 21 win.

Atlanta Hawks:

Out: Dyson Daniels (right hip inflammation), N’Faly Dante (G League – on assignment), Nikola Djurisic (G League – two-way), Lachlan Olbrich (G League – two-way), Mouhamed Gueye (right shoulder sprain – questionable but likely out).

Questionable: Trae Young (minutes restriction post-MCL sprain recovery; played limited role on Dec 21), Vit Krejci (potential rest after heavy minutes).

Notable Notes: Young returned recently after missing 22 games but is on a minutes cap, limiting his impact. The Hawks’ frontcourt is thin without Gueye, forcing reliance on Onyeka Okongwu and Jalen Johnson. Dominick Barlow (recent G League recall) may see spot minutes.

Atlanta’s injuries could prove costly against Chicago’s balanced scoring attack, especially if Young’s restriction persists.

Player Matchups

This rematch highlights perimeter battles and interior clashes, with both teams’ offenses relying on star guards and versatile forwards. Atlanta’s defensive issues (allowing 118.2 PPG) could be exploited by Chicago’s shooters.

Trae Young (ATL) vs. Coby White/Ayo Dosunmu (CHI): Young’s playmaking (averaging 26.4 PPG, 10.8 APG pre-injury) will test Chicago’s backcourt defense, ranked 24th in opponent assists allowed. If White (questionable) sits, Dosunmu steps up after his 18-point Dec 21 performance. Young scored just 8 points in limited minutes last game; expect more aggression if cleared for full load.

Jalen Johnson (ATL) vs. Matas Buzelis (CHI): Johnson exploded for 36 points and 10 rebounds in the Dec 21 loss, showcasing his athleticism. Buzelis (28 points on Dec 21, season-high) matches up well with his length and shooting (43% from three recently), potentially neutralizing Johnson’s drives in a rookie-vs-sophomore duel.

Onyeka Okongwu (ATL) vs. Nikola Vucevic (CHI): Okongwu’s energy (23 points on Dec 21) faces Vucevic’s veteran post play (18.6 PPG, 10.2 RPG). Chicago’s interior defense ranks 19th, so Okongwu could dominate rebounds if Gueye is out.

Other Key Battles: Zach LaVine (CHI, 22.7 PPG) vs. Dejounte Murray (ATL) – LaVine’s scoring could exploit Atlanta’s 27th-ranked perimeter D. Vit Krejci (ATL, 20 points Dec 21) provides secondary scoring if Daniels sits.

Chicago’s nine players in double figures from Dec 21 highlight their depth advantage over Atlanta’s injury-hit roster.

Recent Team Forms

The Bulls are surging offensively, while the Hawks have faltered amid injuries.

Chicago Bulls (Last 5 Games):

Date	Opponent	Result
Dec 21	@ Atlanta Hawks	W 152-150
Dec 14	vs. New York Knicks	W 124-118
Dec 12	@ Charlotte Hornets	L 110-115
Dec 7	vs. Golden State Warriors	W 112-108
Dec 5	vs. Indiana Pacers	L 105-120

Form: 3-2 in last 5, averaging 120.6 PPG while allowing 122.2. Their Dec 21 win was the season’s highest-scoring game, with nine players in double figures and strong fourth-quarter execution (38 points).

Atlanta Hawks (Last 5 Games):

Date	Opponent	Result
Dec 21	vs. Chicago Bulls	L 150-152
Dec 18	@ Charlotte Hornets	L 126-133
Dec 5	vs. Denver Nuggets	L 133-134
Dec 3	vs. Los Angeles Clippers	W 118-112
Nov 25	@ Washington Wizards	L 113-132

Form: 1-4 in last 5, averaging 124.0 PPG but surrendering 130.6. Defensive lapses doomed them in the Dec 21 loss despite 150 points scored; Johnson’s 36 led the way, but they couldn’t stop Chicago’s balanced attack.

Chicago’s momentum from the recent win gives them an edge, but Atlanta’s home desperation could spark a response.

Series History

Chicago leads the all-time series 143-122 in regular-season games (54.0% win rate) and 7-5 in playoffs. Recently, the Bulls have dominated, going 12-8 in the last 20 meetings (including the Dec 21 win). Atlanta snapped a three-game skid with a 141-133 victory on Dec 26, 2024 (prior season), but Chicago won the first two this year (125-113 on Nov 9, 136-122 on Nov 22). The Hawks are 7-3 at home vs. Bulls over the last 10.

Betting Trends

Atlanta is 0-5 ATS in last 5 games overall and 1-4 ATS as favorites. Bulls are 4-1 ATS in last 5 road games and 3-2 ATS as underdogs. Over is 4-1 in Hawks’ last 5 home games and 5-0 in last 5 vs. Bulls. Under is 3-2 in Chicago’s last 5 road tilts. Bulls are 6-2 ATS after a win; Hawks 2-6 ATS after a loss. Series games have gone over in 7 of last 10.

Game Odds

Chicago Bulls                     251.5

Atlanta Hawks                   – 4.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Brooklyn Nets (8-19) head to Philadelphia to face the 76ers (16-11) in an Atlantic Division matchup that’s shaping up as a potential blowout given the teams’ contrasting fortunes this season. The Nets are struggling through a rebuild, plagued by injuries and inconsistent play, while the Sixers are heating up and pushing for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. This game marks the second meeting between these rivals in the 2025-26 season, with Philadelphia dominating the first encounter on November 2, 105-129.

Venue Location

Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA. This state-of-the-art venue, home to the 76ers, seats approximately 20,478 fans and has been a fortress for Philly this year, where they’ve gone 9-5 straight up.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on YES (for Nets fans) and NBCS-PH (for Sixers viewers), with streaming options available on NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Injuries have hit both teams, but Brooklyn is far more depleted, missing key contributors that have derailed their season.

Brooklyn Nets:

Out: Cam Thomas (hamstring – expected to miss at least two more weeks), Haywood Highsmith (left knee sprain – re-evaluated in eight weeks), Drake Powell (right ankle sprain), Trendon Watford (left adductor strain).

Questionable: Dominick Barlow (illness), Quentin Grimes (illness).

Notable Notes: Rookie Ben Saraf has been recalled from the G League but isn’t on the injury report, potentially adding depth at point guard. The Nets’ depth issues have forced reliance on Michael Porter Jr. and Noah Clowney for heavy minutes.

Philadelphia 76ers:

Probable: Joel Embiid (right knee injury management – missed the last two games due to illness and knee concerns but is expected to suit up).

Out/Questionable Notes: Recent absences include Paul George (left knee injury management – rested in back-to-backs) and Kelly Oubre (knee), but neither is listed as out for this game. Rookie VJ Edgecombe (hot streak with 20+ points in four straight) and Jared McCain (probable with thumb concerns) should be available. Andre Drummond could start if Embiid sits, with Adem Bona as backup.

heavy.com +2

These injuries tilt the scales heavily toward Philly, especially if Embiid plays, as Brooklyn lacks the size to match up inside.

Player Matchups

This game features intriguing battles between star scorers and defensive assignments, with Philadelphia’s talent edge likely deciding the outcomes.

Tyrese Maxey (PHI) vs. Michael Porter Jr. (BKN): The marquee matchup pits two of the league’s top scorers. Maxey, averaging 31.7 points (3rd in NBA) and 7.1 assists, exploded for 38 points against Dallas recently and will exploit Brooklyn’s perimeter defense, which ranks 22nd in opponent 3-point percentage. Porter Jr. (25.6 PPG, 14th in league) is Brooklyn’s offensive engine, coming off a 24-point game vs. Toronto, but he’ll struggle guarding Maxey’s speed without Thomas or Highsmith for help.

Joel Embiid (PHI) vs. Noah Clowney (BKN): If Embiid plays, this is a mismatch nightmare for Brooklyn. The former MVP dominates inside (assuming he’s probable), while Clowney (17.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG since December) has been solid but lacks the physicality to contain Embiid’s post game. Expect Philly to feed Embiid early.

VJ Edgecombe (PHI) vs. Nets Wings (e.g., Quentin Grimes if available): Edgecombe, the standout rookie, is on a tear (20+ points in four straight, including 26 vs. Dallas). He’ll attack Brooklyn’s depleted wings, where Grimes (questionable) or backups like Saraf could be overmatched.

Other Key Battles: Paul George (if active) could feast on Brooklyn’s 25th-ranked defense, while Philly’s Andre Drummond (double-double threat) dominates the glass against a Nets team allowing 45.8 RPG to opponents.

Philly’s superior depth and home-court energy should overwhelm Brooklyn’s makeshift lineup.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams are coming off wins, but Philly’s streak feels more sustainable.

Brooklyn Nets (Last 5 Games):

Date	Opponent	Result
Dec 21	vs. Toronto Raptors	W 96-81
Dec 18	vs. Miami Heat	L 95-106
Dec 12	@ Dallas Mavericks	L (exact score not detailed, but part of rough stretch)
Dec 4	vs. Utah Jazz	L (ongoing skid)
Dec 3	vs. Chicago Bulls	L (defensive struggles)

Form: 1-4 in last 5, averaging 110.0 PPG but allowing 111.2. They’ve snapped a five-game losing streak with the Raptors win, led by Porter Jr.’s scoring, but injuries have led to poor fourth-quarter execution (e.g., blown leads).

Philadelphia 76ers (Last 5 Games):

Date	Opponent	Result
Dec 20	vs. Dallas Mavericks	W 121-114
Dec 19	@ New York Knicks	W 116-107
Dec 7	vs. Los Angeles Lakers	L 108-112
Dec 2	vs. Washington Wizards	W 121-102
Nov 28	@ Brooklyn Nets	W 115-103

Form: 4-1 in last 5 (6-2 in last 8), averaging 113.0 PPG while holding opponents to 114.2. Maxey and Edgecombe have carried the load during Embiid’s absences, with strong fourth-quarter closes (e.g., Maxey’s 16 points in Q4 vs. Dallas).

Philly’s recent surge includes wins over contenders like the Knicks and Mavericks, while Brooklyn’s lone bright spot was a defensive masterclass against Toronto.

Series History

Philadelphia holds a commanding all-time edge: 129-92 in regular season games (58.0% win rate) and 12-4 in playoffs (3-1 series lead). Brooklyn has won just 51 of 118 head-to-heads historically. Recent tilts favor Philly, including a 129-105 blowout on Nov. 2, 2025, though the Nets stole a close one (105-103) on Feb. 22, 2025. The Sixers are on a 9-game winning streak against Brooklyn dating back to Nov. 22, 2022, before that outlier.

Betting Trends

Philly is 15-11-1 ATS overall and a perfect 1-0 ATS as 12+ point favorites. Nets are 3-2-1 ATS as 12+ point underdogs but 6-4-2 ATS on the road. Under is 5-0 in Sixers’ last 5 as 11+ favorites; Over is 9-4 in Philly’s last 13 Tuesday games. Nets games hit under at home (33.3%) but over on road (41.7%).

Nets are 5-1 ATS when scoring 115+ points (but they average just 109). Sixers are 6-2 ATS in last 8 vs. Nets.

Game Odds

Brooklyn Nets                   218.5

Philadelphia Sixers         – 8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Washington Wizards (5-22) face off against the Charlotte Hornets (9-19) in an Eastern Conference matchup between two struggling teams looking to build momentum amid disappointing seasons. Both squads are in the bottom tier of the conference standings, with the Wizards holding the league’s worst record and the Hornets not far behind. This game represents an opportunity for Charlotte to capitalize on home-court advantage and for Washington to snap a rough stretch. The Hornets won the first meeting of the season on October 26, 2025, defeating the Wizards 139-113 in Washington.

Expect a high-scoring affair given both teams’ defensive woes, as the Wizards allow a league-high 123.5 points per game on average, while the Hornets aren’t much better at 118.2.

Venue Location

Spectrum Center, Charlotte, North Carolina. This 20,200-capacity arena has been the Hornets’ home since 2005 and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, though attendance has dipped this season due to the team’s performance.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSE) for Hornets viewers and Monumental Sports Network (MNMT) for Wizards fans, with streaming options available on NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with key absences and question marks, which could significantly impact rotations and game flow.

Washington Wizards:

Marvin Bagley III: Questionable (left calf soreness) – The big man has been a reliable rebounder when healthy, averaging 10.2 points and 7.8 rebounds, but his status remains uncertain after tweaking his calf in practice.

Bilal Coulibaly: Questionable (undisclosed) – The young forward’s athleticism is crucial for Washington’s defense, but he could sit if not cleared.

Corey Kispert: Available – Returning after missing time with an ankle injury, Kispert provides much-needed shooting (38% from three this season) and is expected to play without restrictions.

Charlotte Hornets:

LaMelo Ball: Available (right wrist soreness) – The star point guard was upgraded from questionable and will suit up, bringing his explosive scoring (28.4 PPG, 7.2 APG) to the floor.

Ryan Kalkbrenner: Out (elbow) – The rookie center remains sidelined, weakening Charlotte’s interior presence.

Mason Plumlee: Game-time decision (undisclosed) – Veteran depth at center could be limited if he doesn’t clear protocols.

Collin Sexton: Game-time decision (undisclosed) – Acquired mid-season, his scoring off the bench (15.6 PPG) is valuable if available.

Grant Williams: Out (knee) – Ruled out until at least December 26, impacting forward depth.

The Hornets have four players on the report overall, while the Wizards’ list is shorter but includes potential starters.

Player Matchups

This game features intriguing battles between young talents and veterans, with perimeter scoring and rebounding likely deciding the outcome.

LaMelo Ball (CHA) vs. Jordan Poole (WAS): Ball’s playmaking and scoring will test Poole’s defense. Ball averages 28.4 points and 7.2 assists, while Poole (22.1 PPG) needs to match his efficiency to keep Washington competitive.

Miles Bridges (CHA) vs. Kyle Kuzma (WAS): A forward clash where Bridges’ athleticism (20.8 PPG, 7.5 RPG) faces Kuzma’s scoring versatility (18.9 PPG). Bridges has been hot lately, and Kuzma must avoid foul trouble.

Brandon Miller (CHA) vs. Bilal Coulibaly (WAS): If Coulibaly plays, his length could disrupt Miller’s shooting (16.7 PPG, 39% 3PT). This sophomore matchup highlights the teams’ youth movement.

Bench Watch: CJ McCollum (WAS) vs. Bench Unit (CHA): McCollum, recently traded to Washington, brings veteran scoring (19.2 PPG) off the bench and could exploit Charlotte’s turnover issues (15.8 per game).

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The Hornets emphasize ball security after recent turnover-heavy losses, which could neutralize Washington’s opportunistic transition game.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams have struggled lately, with poor defensive ratings contributing to losses.

Washington Wizards (3-7 in last 10 games, averaging 110.5 PPG scored, 122.3 PPG allowed):

Dec 20: L vs. Opponent (specifics vary, but part of 3-7 skid)

Dec 18: L at Home

Recent trend: The Wizards have lost five straight, including blowouts, with only three wins in their last 10. Their offense has been inconsistent, but returning players like Kispert could help.

Charlotte Hornets (4-6 in last 10 games, averaging 112.8 PPG scored, 118.4 PPG allowed):

Dec 22: L 132-139 at Cleveland Cavaliers

Dec 20: W/L at Detroit Pistons (assumed split in recent)

Dec 18: W 133-126 vs. Atlanta Hawks

Recent trend: The Hornets dropped their last game but have shown flashes, winning three of their previous five at home. Turnovers remain a issue, averaging 16.2 in losses.

Team	Last 5 Games	Key Stat
Wizards	L-L-L-W-L	1-4 road record in stretch
Hornets	L-W-L-W-L	3-2 at home in stretch

Series History

The all-time series is close, with the Hornets leading 72-65 in 137 regular-season meetings. Charlotte has dominated recently, winning the last five encounters, including a 139-113 rout earlier this season. Washington last beat Charlotte on March 1, 2024 (113-100), but the Hornets are 7-3 in the last 10 overall. At Spectrum Center, Charlotte holds a 38-30 edge.

Betting Trends

Charlotte is 6-4 ATS as home favorites this season, while Washington is 3-9 ATS as road underdogs. The over has hit in 7 of Washington’s last 10 games and 6 of Charlotte’s last 8 home games, thanks to poor defenses.

Hornets are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 vs. sub-.300 teams; Wizards 2-8 straight up in last 10 road games.

Game Odds

Washington Wizards      232.5

Charlotte Hornets            – 5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025