LeBron James: King of Christmas in the NBA
The NBA’s Christmas Day always has a name: LeBron James. This year, if he plays with the Los Angeles Lakers, he will mark his twentieth participation in Christmas games, an unprecedented milestone in the history of the league. This figure exceeds the number of Christmas games played by 17 current franchises in their entire existence. James not only leads in games played on Christmas, but also dominates several historical statistical categories on this special date. He tops the list of points scored with 507, wins with 11, field goals made with 180, and three-pointers converted with 31, tied with James Harden.I’d rather be home with my family, but this is the game I love. I grew up watching the greats play on Christmas and it’s always been an honor to be a part of this.
LeBron James
A Christmas Billboard Full of Stars
The NBA offers an exciting lineup of five games this December 25th, with the matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder as the main course. The day also includes duels between Cleveland-New York, Dallas-Golden State, Houston-Lakers, and Minnesota-Denver. For players like Jalen Williams from Oklahoma City, it will be their first experience in a Christmas game.Oklahoma City comes with the best record in the league (26-4), although they face a Spurs team that has already defeated them twice this season. Victor Wembanyama, who had a historic Christmas debut last year, leads the Spurs.I grew up watching sports on Christmas. Being able to be a part of that is something really special.
Jalen Williams
More Brands in Play for LeBron
In addition to extending his record for games played on Christmas, James could improve his positions in other statistics. He is currently second in assists (137), steals (28), and free throws made (116) on this date. In rebounds, LeBron is in sixth place historically with 143, approaching legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Shaquille O’Neal.Triples and Debutantes in the Gaze
Klay Thompson (27) and Stephen Curry (26) could approach James and Harden in Christmas three-pointers. In addition, Cooper Flagg, from Dallas, could be the fourth youngest player to debut in a Christmas game at 19 years old. Kevin Durant will make history by playing on Christmas with his fifth different team.Wild West at Christmas
Eight of the ten teams that will play on Christmas belong to the Western Conference, the most since 1978. Meanwhile, franchises like Sacramento, Indiana, and Detroit await their return to the Christmas schedule. The Lakers will play on Christmas for the twenty-seventh consecutive year, solidifying their historical prominence on this date.It’s always exciting to play on Christmas. The vibes are good.
Stephen Curry
