The NBA experienced a captivating Christmas lineup, for the Christmas games showcasing thrilling highs (Denver vs. Phoenix’s overtime duel), perplexing moments (Austin Reaves as a center?), and foreboding signs (James Harden’s discontent in Philadelphia).
The NBA league aspires to keep this season’s drama strictly on the court, and fortunately, a delightful five-game schedule is poised to achieve that goal.
The schedule features the top three Eastern Conference seeds and the defending finalists, creating an exciting lineup. A Christmas renewal of the NBA’s premier rivalry adds to the anticipation, with three games revisiting recent playoff matchups. Amidst this basketball spectacle, which Christmas game stands out the most? Let’s rank all five to uncover the answer.
5. Miami Heat hosts the Philadelphia 76ers
The absence of a Finals rematch on Christmas may raise eyebrows, but the Miami Heat, while not an aesthetically pleasing team, brings a competitive dynamic. Their league-average offense, slower pace, and absence of a top 25 scorer add nuance. Despite statistical advantages for the 76ers and the absence of Joel Embiid due to an ankle sprain, Tyrese Maxey’s performance and the lingering history elevate the viewing experience. The signing-and-trading of Jimmy Butler to Miami in 2019 has added a layer of drama, making this game noteworthy, anticipating potential memorable moments, akin to the “Tobias Harris over me?” incident.
4. New York Knicks host the Milwaukee Bucks
These teams have clashed twice this season, with Jalen Brunson’s impressive 45-point display in the first game and Milwaukee’s 23 three-pointers in the second, leading them to the In-Season Tournament quarterfinal. Defense took a back seat in these encounters. On Christmas, without Mitchell Robinson, out for the season due to ankle surgery, New York faces challenges defending against Giannis Antetokounmpo at the rim. While Isaiah Hartenstein can contribute, the Bucks may exploit the Knicks’ interior defense vulnerabilities, setting the stage for standout performances from Brunson and Antetokounmpo.
3. Phoenix Suns host the Dallas Mavericks
While Bradley Beal and Kyrie Irving’s absence might impact most games, for the Suns and Mavericks, the potential absence is overshadowed by the explosive matchup. With Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker, the game promises fireworks. Dallas boasts the NBA’s 5th-ranked offense and 23rd-ranked defense, while the Suns, closer to league-average on both ends, score an impressive 126 points per 100 possessions with Durant and Booker. Anticipated to be a shootout, recent trends suggest an exciting game, especially considering the Suns’ tendency to make comebacks, as seen in their recent match against Portland.
2. Marquee Showdown: Golden State Warriors vs. Denver Nuggets
Witness the exhilarating clash between Stephen Curry and Nikola Jokic, widely regarded as two of the NBA’s most entertaining players. With Draymond Green suspended, the Warriors face a challenge in containing Jokic, while Denver’s best Curry defender, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, is returning from an ankle injury. Expect a high-scoring affair, with both teams relying heavily on their star players.
While the scoring spectacle mirrors that of Phoenix and Dallas, what distinguishes this game is the recent intense rivalry between the Warriors and Nuggets. Over the past three seasons, eight regular-season encounters have seen four decided by a single possession. Their last match concluded dramatically as Klay Thompson failed to release a game-tying shot at the buzzer. Renowned for exceptional ball movement, these teams consistently deliver closely contested games, making this matchup a standout, securing its spot as No. 2 on the list.
1. Epic Clash: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Unquestionably, this matchup is the epitome of NBA rivalries, featuring the league’s premier draw, LeBron James. With an ensemble cast of All-Star-caliber players such as Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Anthony Davis, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porzingis, the court is graced by remarkable talent. The visual spectacle of Lakers’ purple and gold against Celtics’ green and white adds to the allure.
Boston, currently viewed as championship favorites, contrasts with the Lakers, who boast the In-Season Tournament championship—a distinction the Celtics lack. Beyond these accolades, the recent history of Lakers-Celtics games has been riveting. Last season saw both contests extend into overtime. Notably, the Lakers, despite a stellar performance from James and Davis, surrendered a 13-point lead in the first game’s final minutes. The second game, marked by a controversial non-call on James, culminated in a Celtics victory in overtime.
The captivating dynamic arises from the clash of styles—Lakers’ bully-ball versus Celtics’ finesse and 3-point prowess. This matchup consistently delivers a thrilling spectacle, making it the must-watch highlight of the NBA.
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