Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors: 3 Players to watch on Christmas

OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 22: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors and Brandon Ingram #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers walk up the court during the game on December 22, 2017 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 22: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors and Brandon Ingram #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers walk up the court during the game on December 22, 2017 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

– Kevin Durant

While the Warriors are the defending champions, more of the attention might be on the Lakers in this game. Since James has joined one of the most popular franchises in the NBA, the Lakers have become arguably the biggest story in the NBA.

However, the Warriors are still the team to beat in the Western Conference and they will be motivated to knock the Lakers down a notch. While the Warriors have a great roster, it is their two-time NBA Finals MVP that is still leading the way.

Kevin Durant is once again having a great season, as he is averaging 29.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. Even though he likely won’t get the MVP consideration because of the rest of the stars the Warriors have, Durant is playing some great basketball.

Anytime Durant and James on the floor together we usually get some special games from both of them. With both players playing at a high level in a big game, Durant will be trying to win the individual battle against James.