NBA Schedule Release: Crafting the perfect Christmas Day slate for 2023

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Miami Heat – 2:30 p.m. ET

Let me preface this pairing by saying this is under the assumption that the Miami Heat finalizes a trade for Damian Lillard. If that doesn’t happen, I don’t believe the Heat will be getting a Christmas Day game. Assuming it happens, Miami will absolutely be a lock to host a game on one of the biggest days of the NBA season. And who wouldn’t want to see the Milwaukee Bucks attempt to get some revenge on the Heat on national television?

This could end up being one of the better matchups on Christmas if this comes to fruition. It has big stars, intriguing storylines, and a historic rivalry. The Bucks are in an interesting spot heading into the season. After losing in the first round of the playoffs last season, the Bucks will have to rebuild the favor around the league as a legit championship contender.

The Heat, in the same way, will likely be playing a different role if they land Lillard. Instead of being the lovable underdogs that they’ve excelled at recently, they’ll be the unlikable favorites in the East. How will they handle that?