The NBA on Christmas is a tradition that goes back to 1947, the league's second season. In fact, since 1947, there has only been one season when the NBA has not played at least one game on a Christmas: the 1998-99 season, which began in February because of a lockout.

New York has been surging, having won nine of its last 11 games going into the Christmas Day action. The Spurs have won four of their last six games. Overall, they’re 15-14, and seem ahead of schedule (a little more on that below). You’re getting Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul against Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson!