The NBA calendar closes the year and opens 2026 with a packed slate of meaningful games. From teams fighting for conference positioning to rising stars facing major tests, the upcoming week offers several matchups that deserve close attention. Here is a focused preview of the most interesting NBA games ahead.
The Main Storyline: Nikola Jokić’s Historic Performance
Before looking ahead, the league is still processing what just happened.
In his most recent game against Minnesota, Nikola Jokić recorded 56 points, 16 rebounds, and 15 assists, delivering one of the most dominant performances of the season. The defining moment came in overtime, where Jokić scored 18 points in a single extra period, setting a new all-time NBA record and surpassing Stephen Curry’s mark from 2016.
That performance now serves as the backdrop for the final games of the year and sets expectations for what elite individual impact can look like heading into 2026.
Indiana Pacers vs Boston Celtics
When: Saturday, December 27, 07:00 WIB
Context
Boston (18–11) enters the final stretch of the year in third place in the Eastern Conference, despite operating without Jayson Tatum, who is sidelined long term following Achilles surgery. The Celtics continue to rely on structure and depth to remain near the top of the standings.
Indiana (6–24) is enduring one of the most difficult seasons in the league and sits 14th in the East. Without Tyrese Haliburton, who is also recovering from an Achilles injury, the Pacers are still searching for stability and a consistent offensive identity.
Why It Matters
For Boston, this is a chance to protect its position near the top of the conference. For Indiana, every game represents another step in redefining roles and direction during a challenging campaign.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Philadelphia 76ers
When: Monday, December 29, 03:30 WIB
Context
This matchup stands out as one of the strongest regular-season tests of the week. Oklahoma City owns the best record in the league at 26–5, supported by an imposing +13.0 efficiency rating, and continues to set the standard in the Western Conference.
Philadelphia (16–12) approaches the game with growing attention on rookie VJ Edgecombe, one of the season’s notable revelations, while balancing expectations around availability and health.
What to Watch
The Thunder’s speed, youth, and cohesion contrast with Philadelphia’s reliance on experience and structure. The outcome may hinge on whether Joel Embiid is able to take the floor during this demanding stretch of the schedule.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Phoenix Suns
When: Thursday, January 1, 03:30 WIB
Context
The new year opens with a meeting between two teams currently sitting seventh in their respective conferences. Cleveland (17–15) continues to manage injuries, most notably the absence of Evan Mobley, who remains sidelined with a calf strain.
Phoenix leans on a more controlled offensive approach, built around Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, emphasizing shot selection and execution over pace.
Key Question
Cleveland’s hopes largely rest on Donovan Mitchell’s ability to sustain offensive pressure against a Suns team capable of scoring efficiently from multiple spots on the floor.
San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks
When: Thursday, January 1, 07:00 WIB
Context
This matchup features two teams currently ranked second in their conferences. The Spurs (23–7) close the year on an eight-game winning streak, continuing to narrow the gap on Oklahoma City under the leadership of Victor Wembanyama.
The Knicks (21–9) remain among the most consistent teams in the East, anchored by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Recent Reference
The teams met recently in the NBA Cup semifinals, where San Antonio ended New York’s 16-game winning streak. That result adds an extra layer of interest as they meet again to begin the new year.
Dallas Mavericks vs Philadelphia 76ers
When: Friday, January 2, 08:30 WIB
Context
The focus in Dallas remains firmly on Cooper Flagg. The No. 1 pick of the 2025 NBA Draft has taken on a leading role following season-ending injuries to Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II.
Flagg is averaging 24.4 points per game in December and has emerged as the leading candidate for Rookie of the Year.
Why This Game Matters
Flagg recently became the youngest player in NBA history to score 40+ points in a single game. Facing Philadelphia’s physical defense represents a significant test as the calendar turns to 2026.
Around the League: Where Things Stand
- Surprise of the Season: The Detroit Pistons (24–6) lead the Eastern Conference, ahead of both Boston and New York.
- Western Picture: Luka Dončić now leads the Los Angeles Lakers (19–10), who currently sit fourth in the West.
- Injury Impact: Long-term absences continue to shape the season, with Haliburton, Tatum, Irving, and Davis all sidelined for extended periods.
