Amidst all the concerns about rising COVID cases and player entries in their health protocols, the NBA managed to have another star-studded and exciting day of Christmas Day games. Whether it was Kemba Walker achieving a first-time accomplishment to both of the last-minute thrillers that occurred in Phoenix and Los Angeles, here are our three biggest takeaways from this year's NBA on Christmas games.
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What We Learned From This Year's NBA On Christmas Games
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Kemba is making the most of his return to action
There was an ongoing discussion regarding Kemba Walker and his career for three weeks due to his surprise benching by New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau--- who attributed Walker's benching to his lack of aggression. But over the past week, the former All-Star guard is not only playing again, but he's making history in the process.
During the team's 101-87 victory against their close rival Atlanta Hawks, Walker produced a triple-double (10 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists) and became the first Knick to accomplish that feat on Christmas. "It's kind of hard to put it into words, to be honest," Walker said after the game. "It was special, just to be home, with that New York on my chest ... a New York City kid, born and raised. It felt amazing."
Giannis proves why he's the best player in the world
Even though the conversation about who is the best player will always exist, there are times where there's a clear answer. Last Saturday, Antetokounmpo presented an open and shut case for his claim as the best player in the league via his spectacular second-half performance against the Boston Celtics.
When looking beyond the reigning Finals MVP's stat-line (36 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists), Antetokounmpo's impact on both ends of the floor became a massive obstacle for the Celtics to overcome, despite leading by double digits throughout the game, including with five minutes remaining in regulation.
The Warriors and Nets proved their toughness in last-minute thrillers
During primetime matchups such as the Golden State Warriors vs. the Phoenix Suns or the Brooklyn Nets vs. Los Angeles Lakers, the idea of a measuring test existing between either team comes to life. And while there was much to observe in both of those two games, one thing was for sure. The Warriors and the Nets are the best teams in their conferences.
Even with several key contributors and stars out of action and playing in challenging environments, the Nets and Warriors relied on their toughness and "next man up" mentality to secure a pair of big wins. At this point of the season, speculation could be created for a potential Finals matchup between these two teams.
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