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

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Phoenix Suns (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers – 5:00 p.m. ET

In the marquee matchup, there could be several different options. However, I settled on the marquee matchup that includes the Phoenix Suns taking on the Los Angeles Lakers. The new-look Suns, after the acquisition of Bradley Beal this offseason, will be a heavy favorite in the Western Conference. There will undoubtedly be plenty of hype surrounding this team heading into the season and facing the LeBron James-led Lakers on the spotlight game on Christmas Day would be a strong bet.

The Lakers also will be looking to build off the success they had last season. Los Angeles re-signed key players this offseason while adding a few more contributors that could help this team take another step forward. This will be a good measuring stick type of matchup for both teams. The Lakers were a Western Conference finalist a year ago while the Suns will probably be the favorites to win it all this season.

The winner of this game will carry a mental and psychological edge heading into the thick of the season. Both these teams are guaranteed a spot on Christmas Day; why not against each other?