NBA Recap 12/22/25: Nuggets Tie Record as Pistons Hold the East

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Last night’s NBA slate was packed with high-scoring drama, record-tying performances, and several teams keeping hot streaks alive as the league heads toward the Christmas Day showcase.

Scoreboard: Monday, December 22, 2025

Away Team	Score	Home Team	Score	Top Performer
Utah Jazz	112	Denver Nuggets	135	J. Murray (27 PTS, 7 3 PM)
Charlotte Hornets	132	Cleveland Cavs	139	D. Mitchell (30 PTS)
Dallas Mavericks	113	N.O. Pelicans	119	Z. Williamson (24 PTS)
Indiana Pacers	95	Boston Celtics	103	J. Brown (30 PTS)
Orlando Magic	97	G.S. Warriors	120	S. Curry (Win)
Detroit Pistons	110	Portland Blazers	102	J. Duren (26 PTS, 10 REB)
Memphis Grizzlies	103	OKC Thunder	119	S. Gilgeous-Alexander (Win)

Top Headlines & Storylines

1. Denver’s Splash Party

The Denver Nuggets put on a shooting clinic, tying a franchise record with 24 three-pointers in a blowout win over Utah. Nikola Jokic secured yet another triple-double (14 PTS, 13 REB, 13 AST), but it was Jamal Murray who fueled the offense with 27 points. Denver famously opened the game on a 19-0 run, effectively ending it before the first timeout.

2. Pelicans’ Incredible Turnaround

After starting the season a dismal 3-22, the New Orleans Pelicans extended their season-long winning streak to five games. Zion Williamson was the hero, scoring 10 straight points in the fourth quarter to fend off Anthony Davis (35 PTS) and the Mavericks. Davis returned to New Orleans as a member of Dallas for the first time, but the Pelicans’ depth and late-game execution spoiled the homecoming.

3. Pistons Rule the East

The Detroit Pistons (23-6) continued their dominance atop the Eastern Conference. Despite blowing a 21-point lead, they held off Portland behind Jalen Duren’s 26 points and 10 rebounds. Ausar Thompson also chipped in a monster double-double (18 PTS, 12 REB), proving that the Pistons’ young core is the real deal this season.

4. Celtics Rookie Watch

In Boston, the Celtics leaned on Jaylen Brown’s 31 points to beat Indiana, but the post-game chatter was all about rookie Hugo Gonzalez. The Spaniard continued his impressive run, with fans noting his defensive impact and incredible “plus-minus” rating over the last week.