NBA Christmas Day: Most anticipated matchup?

While it is a no-brainer as far a what will be the most anticipated matchup since the 2015, 2016 and 2017 NBA Finals matchup is one of the fixtures, it can be quite an argument if we take a bit deeper look into the rest of the clashes.

New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers

New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers

Never underestimate a matchup at Madison Square Garden, the Mecca of basketball as they call it. Players anyway love to play at the MSG, and it's even more exhilarating when it's Christmas!

Don't forget it's the 76ers coming in with a possible return of Joel Embiid from his injury. It is always fun when a big-mouth like him hits the limelight. It shall be fun when Embiid and Enes Kanter go on with some Twitter battle before or after the game.

Coming over to the game, it'll be amazing to see the clash between the Sixers' dynamic duo of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid taking on "The Unicorn", Kristaps Porzingis. Also, don't forget how hot Micheal Beasley has been lately.

The Finals Rematch - Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland Cavaliers v Golden State Warriors

The most awaited game for almost everyone!

Not much needs to be said about this one thanks to the rivalry that has been developed by these two teams in the last three NBA Finals. It may very well be this season's NBA Finals matchup as well.

However, the confirmed absences of Stephen Curry and Isaiah Thomas may be turn-offs no matter how many All-Stars still remain in the lineups.

This doesn't change the fact that both teams are red hot right now. LeBron James is having the best season of his career, and Kevin Durant has taken charge in Curry's absence on both ends of the floor and is making a significant run for the All-NBA Defensive First Team.

Boston Celtics vs. Washington Wizards

Kyrie Irving, Boston Celtics

Well, we saw things heating up in between these two sides in the 2017 Eastern Conference semifinals. This is arguably the biggest rivalry in the Eastern Conference right now.

Although the roster for the Celtics isn't the same, there's no doubt that this matchup will be any less lit than the others.

The most interesting part will be the point guard duel between the two All-Star point guards, Kyrie Irving and John Wall.

We are really looking forward to a nail-biter at TD Garden.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets

This fixture, too, is no less than an All-Star game.

Coming out of very busy offseasons, both of these teams are heavily loaded with as much offensive power as teams can carry.

If we just ignore the past two games, the Houston Rockets have been phenomenal lately, blowing out teams one after the other with their three-point shooting prowess. Also, "The Beard" will be coming off of two consecutive 51-point performances and will hopefully be in the groove.

The Oklahoma City Thunder, on the other hand, have had some slumps due to the apparent chemistry issues between the three marquee players, Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Carmelo Anthony, but they have now won 10 of their last 13 games.

Also, they can step up and crush anyone if they want to, and they showcased that when they crushed the Golden State Warriors in November.

This clash should be an action-packed offensive display.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota Timberwolves v Los Angeles Lakers

This one is going to be a high-octane, up-tempo battle between the young bloods of the NBA that carry the future of the league in their hands.

The forever pumped-up Staples Center is going to be even more lit up on this day, not just because it's Christmas, but because it's a time that many have been looking forward to, especially the Lakers fans.

The floor will be flooded with lottery picks of the past few years such as Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball. Also, rookie sensation Kyle Kuzma has been a key player for the Lakers despite not being a lottery pick. Lottery picks Andrew Wiggins and Karl Anthony Towns will be on the floor for the Timberwolves.

Both teams have really been playing well and working hard on a nightly basis and it will be fun to watch the future stars of the NBA go head-to-head.