This is The Athletic’s daily NBA newsletter. Sign up here to receive The Bounce directly in your inbox. On this day in 1996, the Dallas Mavericks made a shocking move by trading Jason Kidd just two and a half seasons into his career.

Forward Cooper Flagg and guard Dylan Harper were the 2025 NBA Draft’s top two picks months ago, and have so far lived up to the hype through a handful of professional games. That was especially apparent on the national stage, when the Mavericks and Spurs faced off against Western Conference opponents looking to secure Christmas wins.

On League Pass, Cade Cunningham and the top-seeded Pistons pay a visit to the Jazz (9:30 ET). The Grizzlies, meanwhile, can secure a 9th victory in their last 13 games when the Bucks come to town (8 ET).

The Spurs join the long list of teams over the years that have deployed that strategy. As awesome as Caruso is on the defensive end, his inconsistent outshot shooting is equally a disadvantage. That's a theme throughout the Thunder's roster. Same goes for guys like Cason Wallace and Lu Dort.

Plus, Jalen Brunson makes MVP case, something is off with Oklahoma City and Draymond Green’s future with Golden State is murky.

Spurs star Victor Wembanyama threw down a massive dunk during the team’s game against the Jazz on Saturday. The San Antonio Spurs have been making their case for the best team in the NBA following three straight wins against the Oklahoma City Thunder,

NBA Christmas Day betting guide with where to watch, odds, Kalshi markets, and best bets for Rockets-Lakers and Timberwolves-Nuggets late-night matchups.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander couldn't help but feel spurned. After leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the playoffs for the first time in four years,