New York Knicks record, statistics, and other history on Christmas Day
The New York Knicks and Christmas Day have become synonymous in NBA history, with the team holding the distinction of playing the most games on the holiday. For both die-hard fans and casual viewers, these matchups are more than just games — they're celebrations of basketball culture and tradition. Here's a deeper dive into the Knicks' history and highlights on Christmas Day.
Why Christmas Day games are special for the Knicks
The Knicks’ place on Christmas Day speaks to their iconic status as one of the NBA's original franchises and their central role in league history. New York’s location, storied fanbase, and historical significance make them a marquee draw for holiday matchups.
Although their overall Christmas Day record (24-32) falls below .500, the Knicks boast the most wins of any franchise, a testament to their consistent presence in these games. Playing in the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden, adds an aura of prestige to the event, creating unforgettable moments for fans and players alike.
For players, taking the court on Christmas Day represents both an honor and a chance to showcase their skills on a global stage. It’s an opportunity to contribute to the legacy of a franchise steeped in basketball history.
Knicks' all-time Christmas Day record
The Knicks' history on Christmas Day spans decades, dating back to their first holiday game in 1947. Below are some key historical trends:
- Longest Win Streaks: Five consecutive victories (1950-1954 and 1968-1972).
- Longest Losing Streaks: Six straight losses (1955-1960 and 2012-2018).
Year | Opponent | Result | Cumulative W-L |
|---|---|---|---|
1947 | Providence Steamrollers | Won | 1-0 |
1948 | Chicago Stags | Loss | 1-1 |
1950 | Philadelphia Warriors | Won | 2-1 |
1951 | Fort Wayne Pistons | Won | 3-1 |
1952 | Boston Celtics | Won | 4-1 |
1953 | Syracuse Nationals | Won | 5-1 |
1954 | Syracuse Nationals | Won | 6-1 |
1955 | Fort Wayne Pistons | Loss | 6-2 |
1956 | St. Louis Hawks | Loss | 6-3 |
1957 | Syracuse Nationals | Loss | 6-4 |
1958 | Boston Celtics | Loss | 6-5 |
1959 | Boston Celtics | Loss | 6-6 |
1960 | Syracuse Nationals | Loss | 6-7 |
1961 | Philadelphia Warriors | Win | 7-7 |
1962 | Syracuse Nationals | Loss | 7-8 |
1963 | Los Angeles Lakers | Loss | 7-9 |
1964 | Baltimore Bullets | Loss | 7-10 |
1965 | St. Louis Hawks | Loss | 7-11 |
1966 | Chicago Bulls | Won | 8-11 |
1967 | Boston Celtics | Loss | 8-12 |
1968 | Philadelphia 76ers | Won | 9-12 |
1969 | Detroit Pistons | Won | 10-12 |
1970 | Buffalo Sabres | Won | 11-12 |
1971 | Golden State Warriors | Won | 12-12 |
1972 | Detroit Pistons | Won | 13-12 |
1973 | Capital Bullets | Loss | 13-13 |
1974 | Philadelphia 76ers | Loss | 13-14 |
1975 | Philadelphia 76ers | Won | 14-14 |
1976 | Philadelphia 76ers | Loss | 14-15 |
1977 | Philadelphia 76ers | Won | 15-15 |
1978 | Philadelphia 76ers | Loss | 15-16 |
1979 | New Jersey Nets | Won | 16-16 |
1980 | Boston Celtics | Loss | 16-17 |
1981 | New Jersey Nets | Loss | 16-18 |
1982 | New Jersey Nets | Loss | 16-19 |
1983 | New Jersey Nets | Won | 17-19 |
1984 | New Jersey Nets | Loss | 17-20 |
1985 | Boston Celtics | Won | 18-20 |
1986 | Chicago Bulls | Won | 19-20 |
1987 | Detroit Pistons | Loss | 19-21 |
1992 | Chicago Bulls | Loss | 19-22 |
1994 | Chicago Bulls | Loss | 19-23 |
1999 | Indiana Pacers | Loss | 19-24 |
2001 | Toronto Raptors | Won | 20-24 |
2009 | Miami Heat | Loss | 20-25 |
2010 | Chicago Bulls | Won | 21-25 |
2011 | Boston Celtics | Won | 22-25 |
2012 | Los Angeles Lakers | Loss | 22-26 |
2013 | Oklahoma City Thunder | Loss | 22-27 |
2014 | Washington Wizards | Loss | 22-28 |
2016 | Boston Celtics | Loss | 22-29 |
2017 | Philadelphia 76ers | Loss | 22-30 |
2018 | Milwaukee Bucks | Loss | 22-31 |
2021 | Atlanta Hawks | Won | 23-31 |
2022 | Philadelphia 76ers | Loss | 23-32 |
2023 | Milwaukee Bucks | Won | 24-32 |
Cumulative Record Highlights:
- Most points scored: 136 points vs. Philadelphia Warriors in 1961.
- Largest margin of victory: 29 points vs. New Jersey Nets in 1979.
Iconic Christmas Day Moments
Certain games stand out in the Knicks’ long history on Christmas Day.
1984: Bernard King’s 60-Point Performance
In a legendary matchup against the New Jersey Nets, Bernard King delivered the most prolific scoring performance in Christmas Day history, dropping 60 points on 62% shooting. Despite the Knicks losing the game, King cemented his legacy with an unbreakable record.
1986: Ewing vs. Jordan
In their first-ever matchup, Patrick Ewing and Michael Jordan clashed in a tightly contested 86-85 Knicks victory. Ewing posted 28 points and 17 rebounds, while Jordan dazzled with 30 points, 6 steals, and 5 assists. This game marked the beginning of one of the NBA’s most celebrated rivalries.
2011: Melo’s Christmas Heroics
Coming off the NBA Lockout, the 2011 season opener on Christmas saw Carmelo Anthony take over in the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics. Melo scored 17 of his 37 points in the final minutes, propelling the Knicks to a thrilling 106-104 victory.
Statistical Highlights
- Bernard King’s 60 points: The highest-ever on Christmas Day.
- Kemba Walker’s triple-double (2021): The first and only one in his career, with 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists against the Hawks.
- Amar’e Stoudemire’s 6 blocks (2010): Tied for 4th most in a Christmas Day game.
- Carmelo Anthony’s Christmas Day average: Melo leads Knicks players with 29.9 points per game on 49.2% shooting over multiple Christmas appearances.
Top Opponents on Christmas Day
The Knicks have faced some teams more frequently than others:
- Philadelphia Warriors/76ers: 10 matchups.
- Boston Celtics: 8 matchups.
- New Jersey Nets: 5 matchups, including four straight from 1981-1984.
What’s Next for the Knicks on Christmas Day?
The Knicks continue to carry the torch for Christmas Day games, often opening the action at noon EST. In 2023, they face the San Antonio Spurs, showcasing star players like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns in a high-profile holiday clash.
Looking ahead, the NBA could consider scheduling future Christmas Day games against familiar rivals like the Boston Celtics or featuring playoff rematches to heighten the stakes and excitement. The Knicks’ sustained competitiveness ensures they will remain a fixture on Christmas Day, bringing joy to fans and preserving their unique place in NBA history.
For the Knicks, Christmas Day is more than just another game — it's a stage to celebrate the franchise’s enduring legacy in basketball and its special connection with the holiday season.
feed