5. Boston Celtics vs. Toronto Raptors
Both the Celtics and Raptors should be playoff teams in the Eastern Conference. When every game is on national television, you want to showcase your best teams. However, this is by far the least intriguing game on the slate.
The Raptors defeated the Golden State Warriors in the 2019 NBA Finals, so they earned a Christmas Day game, especially as a host. But, without Kawhi Leonard on the team, they are lacking star power that is normally reserved for such days like Christmas. Had they not won the NBA title, they would not be playing on Christmas Day, let alone hosting.
Boston lost Kyrie Irving and Al Horford in free agency but landed Kemba Walker and Enes Kanter as replacements. The name recognition has lessened for them as well, but they have some youngsters that will draw some eyes in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
There is a good chance that this game takes over the noon slot that has been occupied mostly by the New York Knicks in recent years. An argument could be made that Irving’s new team, the Brooklyn Nets, should have been in this game.