A compelling NBA showdown is set for Sunday, December 28, 2025, as the Philadelphia 76ers travel to face the formidable Oklahoma City Thunder at the Paycom Center. This inter-conference battle pits a consistent Eastern Conference playoff contender against the league's most dominant team in the early season.
Team Standings and the Challenge Ahead
The Philadelphia 76ers arrive in Oklahoma with a solid 16-11 record, good for fourth place in the Eastern Conference. However, they face their toughest test yet against a Thunder squad that has been virtually unstoppable. Oklahoma City boasts an incredible 25-3 record, the best in the NBA, and has been particularly formidable at home, winning 14 of their 16 games at the Paycom Center. Their success is built on controlling the game's tempo and minimising errors.
For the 76ers, this matchup is a critical gauge of their ability to compete with the league's elite, especially while navigating significant lineup uncertainties. Their road record of 7-5 is respectable, but the environment in Oklahoma City presents a unique challenge.
Injury Report and Lineup Concerns
The biggest question mark for Philadelphia surrounds the status of their superstar, Joel Embiid. The reigning MVP is listed as questionable due to right knee management. If he is unable to play, Andre Drummond and Adem Bona are expected to shoulder the minutes at the center position. The team's depth is further tested with V.J. Edgecombe, Quentin Grimes, and Dominick Barlow all questionable due to illness. Additionally, Kelly Oubre Jr. (left knee) and Trendon Watford (left adductor) have been ruled out.
In contrast, the Oklahoma City Thunder enter the game with a relatively cleaner bill of health. While Jaylin Williams (heel), Ajay Mitchell (concussion), and Ousmane Dieng (calf) will be game-time decisions, the team expects its core rotation, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, to be available. Rookie Nikola Topic remains out long-term with a knee injury.
Key Players and Matchup Dynamics
The game features a marquee guard matchup that will likely decide the outcome. For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues his MVP-calibre season, averaging 32.1 points and 6.5 assists per game as the engine of the league's second-best offense (121.3 PPG). He is complemented by Chet Holmgren (17.9 PPG, 7.8 RPG), who anchors the NBA's top-ranked defense (allowing 107.4 PPG).
Philadelphia's hopes rest heavily on the shoulders of Tyrese Maxey, who is having a career year with averages of 30.8 points and 7.0 assists. His speed and scoring creation become even more vital if Joel Embiid (21.8 PPG, 6.5 RPG) is sidelined or limited.
The game is scheduled for an 8:30 PM ET tip-off (6:30 PM local time). Oklahoma City is a clear favourite, with predictions suggesting a win by 8 to 12 points and a total score in the mid-220s. Key player props to watch include Gilgeous-Alexander's scoring line set over 31.5 points, while Maxey's potential output increases significantly if Embiid is absent.
For the 76ers to defy expectations and keep the game close, limiting turnovers against Oklahoma City's aggressive, league-leading defense will be absolutely critical.
Where to Watch the Game in India
Fans in India can catch all the action live on NBA League Pass. The broadcast will also air locally on FDSOK in Oklahoma City and NBC Sports Philadelphia. Alternative streaming options include the ESPN app, YouTube TV, and Fubo. Live stats and highlights will be available on platforms like ESPN, NBA.com, and Sofascore.
