The 2023 NBA Christmas Day schedule is set to feature some exciting matchups, as reported by Shams Charania. The highlight of the day will be the renewed rivalry between the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers. Additionally, the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors, will face off in a highly anticipated showdown.
The full Christmas Day lineup includes:
- Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers
- Denver Nuggets vs. Golden State Warriors
- Milwaukee Bucks vs. New York Knicks
- Philadelphia 76ers vs. Miami Heat
- Dallas Mavericks vs. Phoenix Suns
The Celtics and Lakers have a storied history and will meet on Christmas Day for the fifth time overall. Their most recent matchup on Christmas came in 2008, with the Lakers winning behind Kobe Bryant’s impressive performance. The Celtics had the last laugh that season by winning the NBA Finals. This game promises to be another chapter in their intense rivalry.
The Nuggets and Warriors are both familiar faces on the Christmas Day schedule. While they have appeared individually in the past, this will mark their first Christmas Day matchup. Both teams have had strong showings in recent years, and their meeting could provide one of the most exciting games of the day.
The Bucks and Knicks will have a rematch of their 2018 Christmas game, where Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks emerged victorious. Madison Square Garden has been a special place for Antetokounmpo, and this game could provide more memorable moments.
The 76ers and Heat matchup is intriguing given the uncertainties surrounding some star players. Both teams are dealing with potential roster changes, with James Harden’s trade request and Damian Lillard’s potential move to the Heat adding an element of uncertainty to the game.
The final game of the day features a rematch between the Mavericks and Suns, who had a dramatic second-round series in 2022 that the Mavericks won in seven games. With star players like Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, this game promises to be an exciting and high-scoring affair.
The NBA Christmas Day schedule has become a tradition in the basketball world, offering fans a full day of exciting matchups and memorable moments.
