Lakers vs Bulls: Why Matchup Is Least Appealing of the Christmas Day Games

Christmas Day is going to be awesome for NBA fans, especially considering the fact that a few months ago we weren't even sure if we'd see professional basketball this year.

The NBA knew they were naughty with the lockout and decided to do something very nice by giving us a full slate of high-profile games on Christmas Day to start out the season.

The day starts off with a good old battle of classic NBA teams, as the Celtics and new-look Knicks get together.

In the afternoon we will be graced with a rematch of last year's Finals, as the Mavericks and Heat go at it, and the evening presents us with the Magic playing the Thunder and the new and improved Clippers going against Golden State.

I'm forgetting something though, aren't I?

That's right, sandwiched in between these games is a matchup between the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers.

It should be a good game, but to be honest, if you're looking to take a nap that would be the perfect time to rejuvenate for the night games.

How is this possible? Isn't a showdown between Kobe Bryant and Derrick Rose worth watching?

Don't get me wrong, I'm sure it will be great, but out of all the games on the schedule, this one is definitely the least appealing. Let's go through them one by one from most appealing to least:

1. Mavericks vs. Heat: 

Easy decision here. It's a rematch of last year's NBA Finals, and many people expect it could be the preview of this year's. 

2. Clippers vs. Warriors

Chris Paul and Blake Griffin playing together on the same court? Sign me up for the TV package please.

3. Magic vs. Thunder

The Dwight Howard soap opera will be a must-watch all season. Plus, who doesn't want to watch Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook? The Thunder can challenge to come out of the West this season, hands down.

4. Celtics vs. Knicks

At noon, this will technically be the first game of the lockout-shortened NBA season. The Knicks are feeling strong with Tyson Chandler in the fold, and watching Rajon Rondo play point guard for the Celtics is an amazing experience.

5. Bulls vs. Lakers

Does anybody get the impression that the Lakers are becoming the grumpy old man of this season?

With all the new faces in new places and all the firepower being assembled around the NBA, the Lakers don't have much to offer besides a team that has arguably gotten weaker.

On top of that, Kobe is injured and may not even play this game, and even if he does he won't be 100 percent.

I'm sorry, but watching the Lakers without Kobe Bryant would be like watching the Patriots without Tom Brady. It's just not as appealing.

Sure, the reigning MVP, Derrick Rose, will be on the floor, but excuse me if not interested in watching him blow by Derek Fisher and Steve Blake for four quarters.

All in all, this is a great day for basketball and a great day for fans of the NBA.

If you're not a Lakers or Bulls fan, though, I just helped you plan your nap.

You're welcome.