LeBron James to Face Former Team on Christmas Day

The NBA has unveiled part of its regular-season schedule, highlighting the much-anticipated Christmas Day games. LeBron James, now with the Philadelphia 76ers, will be a central figure in these matchups. The 76ers are set to play against James’ former team, the Los Angeles Lakers, adding excitement to his 21st Christmas Day appearance.

James previously spent eight seasons with the Lakers and was instrumental in securing an NBA championship for them in 2020. In joining the 76ers, he’s boosted a team already strengthened by the addition of Jaylen Brown. Brown, a five-time All-Star and the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, joined the 76ers in a trade from the Boston Celtics.

The Los Angeles Lakers, meanwhile, have made significant roster changes. They’ve traded with the Utah Jazz for Walker Kessler, forming a new “Big Three” along with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. This season marks the beginning of the Doncic era in Los Angeles, where he’ll lead the team.

Austin Reaves secured his place in the lineup through a four-year, $180 million contract signed in July. Kessler’s addition aims to solve the team’s persistent need for a strong center since trading Anthony Davis. Last season, Kessler averaged 14.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game during his time with the Jazz.

Fans can watch James and the 76ers face the Lakers at 5 p.m. ET on December 25. The Christmas Day games will start at noon ET with the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks facing off at Madison Square Garden. This is a rematch of a previous NBA Finals.

The lineup also includes a game between the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics at 2:30 p.m. ET. Later, the Oklahoma City Thunder takes on the Minnesota Timberwolves at 8 p.m. ET. The day concludes with the Denver Nuggets playing against the Golden State Warriors at 10:30 p.m. ET.

All five games will air on ABC and ESPN, offering a full day of basketball entertainment for fans. For additional NBA news, visit Newsweek Sports.