Latest Basketball News

📅December 31, 2025 at 1:00 PM
NBA plagued by injuries in 2025, highlighted by Jokic's knee issue; player props for Dec 31 games, team regrets, surprises, and key matchups dominate headlines.
1

Nikola Jokic Hyperextends Left Knee, Out Indefinitely

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic hyperextended his left knee in Monday's game against Miami, with evaluation scheduled in 4 weeks.Source 6 The injury occurred late in the first half when his foot was stepped on, raising concerns for Nuggets fans.Source 2 Coach David Adelman expressed frustration, emphasizing no replacement for the three-time MVP.Source 2

2

2025 Labeled NBA's Year of Injuries

Numerous star players faced significant injuries throughout 2025, many extending into 2026.Source 2Source 9 NBA Commissioner Adam Silver noted frustration but rejected scheduling as the sole cause, citing data analysis.Source 2 Teams like Denver now rely on 'next man up' mentality amid the injury wave.Source 2

3

LaMelo Ball Player Prop: Over 20.5 Points

Expert picks recommend betting over 20.5 points for Charlotte Hornets' LaMelo Ball on Dec. 31 due to team injuries boosting his usage.Source 1 Ball has exceeded this in his last four games, expected to continue against Golden State.Source 1Source 7 Odds stand at 1.87.Source 1

4

Paolo Banchero Prop: Under 23.5 Points Recommended

Orlando Magic's Paolo Banchero faces an under 23.5 points pick amid shaky shot selection and recent misses.Source 1 The Magic struggle post-key wing loss, making this the safer bet at 1.87 odds.Source 1 His scoring hasn't met expectations this season.Source 1

5

Nikola Vucevic Over 17.5 Points Amid Bulls Injuries

Chicago Bulls' Nikola Vucevic is projected over 17.5 points with increased workload from team absences.Source 1 Expect more minutes and shots, odds at 1.87.Source 1 This aligns with broader injury trends affecting stars.Source 2

6

Tim Hardaway Jr. Over 15.5 Points for Nuggets

With Nuggets starters sidelined including Jokic, Tim Hardaway Jr. steps up over 15.5 points.Source 1 He's hit this consistently recently in his starting role, odds 1.87.Source 1 Denver faces depth challenges.Source 2

7

Victor Wembanyama Prop: Over 24.5 Points

San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama is favored over 24.5 points, healthy and facing a weakened defense.Source 1 Recent big nights support this at 1.87 odds.Source 1 Spurs aim to bounce back strongly.Source 1

8

Hawks Regret Delaying Trae Young Trade

Atlanta Hawks top regret: stalling on trading Trae Young amid stalled extension talks.Source 3 Signals indicate they're more open to deals than ever, per insiders.Source 3 Team focuses on defensive rebuild.Source 3

9

Mavericks Lament Doncic for Davis Trade

Dallas regrets trading Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis and assets, questioning Davis' injury history.Source 3 Failed to maximize draft capital from Lakers in the deal.Source 3 Conditioning concerns mismatched.Source 3

10

Rockets Regret Capela Over Landale Choice

Houston's decision to reacquire Clint Capela instead of retaining Jock Landale draws regret.Source 3 Came after handling Fred VanVleet's ACL tear without panic trades.Source 3 Big man strategy questioned.Source 3

11

Lakers vs Pistons Game Live on Dec 31

Los Angeles Lakers face Detroit Pistons in NBA regular season action today.Source 5 Part of Lakers' packed schedule with highlights available post-game.Source 5 Key matchup amid injury-plagued season.Source 2

12

Warriors-Hornets Preview for Dec 31

Golden State Warriors visit Charlotte Hornets on Dec. 31, setting stage for LaMelo Ball's key performance.Source 7Source 1 Game highlights player prop opportunities.Source 1 Teams navigating end-of-year slate.Source 7