Uncertainty of LeBron’s future makes X-Mas matchup a gem for Boston Celtics

LeBron's uncertain future with the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA in general make the Christmas day rivalry matchup with the Boston Celtics a gem for fans (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
LeBron's uncertain future with the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA in general make the Christmas day rivalry matchup with the Boston Celtics a gem for fans (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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LeBron James‘ uncertain future in the NBA — between his son possibly going pro in a year, coupled with LBJ’s stated desire to play with Bronny wherever he gets drafted, and topped off by the flirtation the “king” had with retirement this offseason that practically everyone took with a grain of salt — make the rivalry game between the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas day a gem for fans of all kind.

For those keeping score at home, or simply referring to the above tweet/X-post (on second thought, let’s stick with “tweet”), the Cs are getting the primetime game against the franchise they’re tied with for most NBA championships in what could be LeBron’s last hurrah in Los Angeles. Whether he teams with Bronny or simply goes in the retirement or superteam direction is unclear.

But the Christmas Day 2023 matchup between the Cs and the Lakers is clearly a win for NBA fans everywhere. Assuming the stars align and we get the game being advertised. Which is never a guarantee.

Boston Celtics-Lakers game set to highlight Christmas day

Simply by basing it off the words of CBS Sports’ Jack Maloney, the Boston Celtics are set to highlight the Christmas Day slate against the Lakers. His words, not the Houdini’s. But, yeah, also the Houdini’s if we’re keeping it real.

“The 2023 NBA Christmas Day schedule will be highlighted by the latest edition of the rivalry between the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers, and a meeting between the last two champions, the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors, according to Shams Charania,” Maloney wrote.

It’s neither a stretch nor a secret that James equals ratings, but after making it to the Western Conference Finals and ahead of what could be his final season if he opts out of his 2024-25 player option, the “king” is collaborating with the Celtics to give December 25 that unofficial NBA opening day feel; since the actual opening day schedule release left a bit to be desired.