The NBA Christmas Day schedule features an exciting matchup as the Cleveland Cavaliers face the New York Knicks on December 25, 2025. The game takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York City, starting at noon Eastern Time. This event marks a highlight in the league’s annual tradition, showcasing key teams and players during the festive season.
The Cavaliers, who have struggled recently, will look to improve their standing against a Knicks team eager to make an impact. Notably, the Knicks’ Mikal Bridges will be a player to watch, having previously showcased his skills during a game against the Cavaliers earlier this season. Jalen Williams, another rising star, shared his enthusiasm: “As a basketball player, I feel like you grow up watching sports on Christmas. To be able to be a part of it is really cool.”
This year’s Christmas slate features five games in total, with the Cavaliers and Knicks kicking things off. Following their matchup, the schedule includes the San Antonio Spurs at the Oklahoma City Thunder at 2:30 p.m., the Dallas Mavericks at the Golden State Warriors at 5 p.m., the Houston Rockets at the Los Angeles Lakers at 8 p.m., and finally the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Denver Nuggets at 10:30 p.m.
For many players, Christmas Day games hold a special significance. LeBron James, if he plays, will participate in his 20th Christmas game, setting a record for the most games played on this holiday. “I’d much rather be at home with my family,” James remarked, “but it’s a game I love.” His impressive Christmas Day statistics already include leading the all-time list in several categories, such as points and field goals made.
This year’s games also spotlight emerging talents like Victor Wembanyama, who will be making his second Christmas appearance after a standout debut last year. He expressed the excitement surrounding this year’s game, noting, “It’s a big day for the NBA.”
The 2025 schedule reflects a shift in team selections, with eight of the ten teams playing on Christmas coming from the Western Conference, the highest concentration since 1978. This imbalance highlights the growing prominence of Western teams in the league.
In addition, players such as Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry are expected to make their marks. Thompson ranks third in all-time Christmas three-pointers made, while Curry aims to continue his scoring prowess in another holiday game.
As the Cavaliers and Knicks prepare for their Christmas Day showdown, fans eagerly anticipate the on-court action and the memorable moments that define this festive tradition in sports. The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden is sure to be electrifying, with both teams looking to secure a win and etch their names in Christmas Day history.
