As it is every year, there are a handful of basketball games to accompany the warmth of family and friends on Christmas day (tomorrow). But these games might have more meaning than you might think, so I offer my own insight:
Washington Wizards (19-8) at New York Knicks (5-25), 12 pm ET, ESPN
Not much going on here… The Wizards are off to their best start in a while, after advancing to the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals last year. John Wall is on a tear, leading the team with 17.8 points per game and 10.4 assists per game. On the other hand, the Knicks will find themselves with coal in their stockings once again, only adding to the memories to forget this season. A win won’t do too much, besides providing a hopeful turning point in the Knicks’ season.
Winner: Washington
Oklahoma City Thunder (13-16) at San Antonio Spurs (18-11), 2:30 pm ET, ABC
Any matchup between contenders in the regular season can be a potential playoff match-up in the Western Conference. The Thunder have been playing 3 games without reigning MVP Kevin Durant, and Russell Westbrook has only been able to do so much to carry this team. The Spurs, meanwhile, faced losses to the Trailblazers, Grizzlies, and the Mavericks, all of which came within 6 points or less. Both teams will make the playoffs, no doubt, but it will be a matter of health for both teams, as KD and finals MVP Kawhi Leonard are slowed by injuries.
Winner: San Antonio
Cleveland Cavaliers (17-10) at Miami Heat (13-16), 5 pm ET, ABC
The return of the King! Having spent the past 4 years in South Beach, LeBron James makes his highly anticipated return to Heat nation, where he led the team to four straight Finals appearances, not to mention 2 championships. It’s obvious that Miami misses his play-making ability, with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh sidelined with injuries frequently. But now that he’s with Cleveland, will fans receive him with warmth? Or will he be booed? Only tip-off will tell, as James and the Cavs hope to spend Christmas day with a win.
Winner: Cleveland
Los Angeles Lakers (9-19) at Chicago Bulls (19-9), 8 pm ET, TNT
Pau Gasol welcomes his former team into Chicago, as Kobe returns from his one-game absence. The Lakers looked so fluid and in sync with each other on Tuesday, handing the Warriors just their fourth loss of the season. Will Kobe’s return and his inconsistent shooting mess up the chemistry that blew out the league’s top team? Other than that, there won’t be much to take away from this match, with the Lakers looking destined for another lottery pick this season.
Winner: Chicago
Golden State Warriors (23-4) at Los Angeles Clippers (19-10), 10:30 pm ET, TNT
In addition to the Cavs-Heat game, this West coast rivalry matchup constitutes a major part of the excitement during Christmas. It is a new found rivalry, with tempers flaring, players scoring, and superstars from both teams stepping up when time calls for them. Whether it is Steph Curry drilling ridiculous four-point plays or Blake Griffin smashing one down on Andrew Bogut, this game is a great way to end a special day with your family and friends. Every game of their first round match-up was a must-watch last year, so this game is no different, especially for an atmosphere like Christmas.
Winner: Golden State
Photo Credit: NBA