Every year, we debate whether the NBA has aced the Christmas Day showcase. Or some fans will feel unhappiness over the squad not getting the right players.
While the organizers are unlikely to satisfy fans with all 10 teams being completely represented, they include many eye-catching talents in these teams. The lineup of Christmas Day should offer old and new rivalries, bona fide legends, and new stars to get familiar with. Here, we will look at the five most interesting players to watch out for on NBA Christmas Day.
Karl-Anthony Towns, Knicks
Karl is not having a great year; his scores are down from last year. He is shooting a career low 47.7% from the field. His numbers have dipped, but his offensive gravity, screening, and rebounding have helped the Knicks.
The biggest surprise is his defensive resurgence. He excels at the rim and in space. He is ranked in the 94th percentile of NBA defenders. This tells us that he can be the defensive anchor for the team.
Stephon Castle, Spurs
Stephon Castle has emerged as the premier two-way running mate for Victor Wembanyama. He has taken a massive leap and averages 18 points and 7 assists. It is a feat achieved at this age only be legends of the game.
His playmaking might be the best offense in the conference, but his defense is equally elite. He ranks in the 95th percentile for matchup difficulty and perimeter isolation. He is now a key player for San Antonio’s quest for a championship.
Cooper Flagg, Mavericks
The rookie season of Cooper Flagg shifted dramatically once he was moved off the ball. It allowed him to flourish as afinisher rather than a primary initiator. The 19-year-old is averaging 20.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists.
Incidentally, he has become the most utilized clutch player in the league. He needs to refine his perimeter jump shot and physical strength. But we can say that he has transformed from a high-potential experiment to a cornerstone star.
LeBron James, Lakers
LeBron James is a bona fide superstar and legend of the game. He will make the teams better wherever he plays. However, he has transitioned into a more efficient role to accommodate the Lakers’ new core of Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. He remains an elite post-up orchestrator, but his scores have dipped significantly.
His defence also remains a concern. With Dončić and Reaves hampered by injuries, the King has to bear the load.
Jamal Murray, Nuggets
Jamal Murray has finally shaken his slow-starter reputation and delivered his career-best opening stretch. He is averaging a career high of 25.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists. He is also having an elite 50/45/90 shooting season.
His efficiency has been the driving force behind the Denver Nuggets’ offense that currently leads the NBA. He has provided the consistency Denver needed while navigating early-season injuries to their supporting cast.