The Oklahoma City Thunder are set for a high-stakes Christmas Day rematch against the San Antonio Spurs at the Paycom Centre, looking to avenge a decisive defeat from just days earlier. This marquee matchup, part of the NBA's five-game Christmas slate, marks OKC's first appearance on the holiday since 2018 and carries significant weight in the Western Conference standings.
Thunder Aim for Holiday Redemption After Road Loss
The stage is set for a compelling narrative of revenge. On Tuesday, December 23rd, the San Antonio Spurs handed the Oklahoma City Thunder a convincing 130-110 defeat on their home court. This result sets up a rapid-fire rematch, with the two teams facing off again within a span of just three days. The Thunder, who boast an impressive 26-4 season record, saw their early-season dominance challenged, while the Spurs improved to 22-7.
Despite their stellar record, the Thunder have hit a minor rough patch, going 2-3 in their last five games. Their loss to the Spurs also represented their elimination from the NBA Cup tournament. However, oddsmakers still favour the home team, listing the Spurs as considerable underdogs for Thursday's contest.
How and Where to Watch Spurs vs Thunder
Fans in India and globally can tune in for this Christmas Day spectacle. The game tips off on Thursday, December 25th, at 2:30 PM Eastern Time (ET). For viewers in India, this translates to a late-night start. The game will be broadcast nationally on ABC and ESPN, with live streaming available on Fubo. All the action will originate from the Paycom Centre in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Projected Lineups and Key Injury Updates
The anticipated starting lineups feature a clash of star power. The Spurs are expected to start De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, and the phenomenal rookie Victor Wembanyama at center. The Thunder will counter with their own MVP candidate, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, alongside Luguentz Dort, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein.
The injury report, however, tilts heavily against the Thunder. Oklahoma City will be without several key players:
- Ousmane Dieng (Calf) - Out
- Jaylin Williams (Heel) - Out
- Ajay Mitchell (Concussion) - Out
- Nikola Topic (Testicular Cancer) - Out
- Thomas Sorber (ACL Tear) - Out
As of the latest update, the San Antonio Spurs have no players listed on their injury report, giving them a potential health advantage.
Game Prediction and Stakes in the West
This Christmas Day clash is about more than holiday bragging rights. The Thunder's once-commanding lead in the Western Conference has shrunk. After starting the season a remarkable 24-1, they now sit only 3.5 games ahead of the Spurs. Another loss would not only give San Antonio a 3-0 season series sweep but also seriously threaten OKC's pursuit of the all-time regular-season wins record.
While the Spurs' Tuesday victory came against a Thunder team playing the second night of a back-to-back, their confidence will be sky-high. The key matchup to watch will be in the paint between Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama. Ultimately, the Thunder's championship mettle will be tested as they look to defend their home court, overcome significant injury woes, and reclaim their supremacy on a national holiday stage.
