No. 2: Phoenix Suns @ Denver Nuggets
The big man is officially back, and this game is all about Nikola Jokic and Deandre Ayton. Jokic is a back-to-back defending MVP, and Ayton just signed his first big contract. He has a lot to prove whether or not the Suns overpaid or got good value.
Jokic and the Nuggets seem to be on a mission after their first-round exit last season. They are healthy, hungry, and currently tied with the Grizzlies for the league’s top spot in the West.
Much like the Nuggets, the Suns came into the 2022-23 campaign after an underwhelming playoff appearance. Both of these teams have proven they can have regular-season success. The same question irks both squads, are they good enough to bring the Larry O’Brien trophy back to their respective city?
A win on Christmas for either team will not answer that question. However, it could help set the tone for the remainder of said team’s season.