Every Christmas 2023 game (NFL and NBA!), ranked by…

Every Christmas 2023 game (NFL and NBA!), ranked by watchability: The best contests to watch on Dec. 25

Hey, it’s Christmas Day! And aside from that meaning a lot whether you celebrate the holiday or spend it with family or have a day off, it also means there’s a lot of sports on your television.

The NBA has its traditional slate of games set for December 25, while the NFL has jumped in with three contests of its own on Monday, so there will be so much to enjoy. You may want to plan your day around these events. and that’s where this list comes in.

Here’s a ranking of every one of those games by watchability — the ones you can skip with a nap or a meal and the ones you must watch (all times Eastern):

8
Dallas Mavericks at Phoenix Suns, 10:30 p.m. on ESPN

One game has to be last and this is it. For the East Coast, you’ll be exhausted and in bed. But even for the West, these two teams are just OK. There are better games on.

7
New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles, 4:30 p.m. on Fox

I love Tommy DeVito as much as the next guy, but I don’t foresee this being that close of a game as the Eagles get right against a meh Giants team that doesn’t do well against contenders. Plus, it’s that pre-dinner lull — maybe you nap, maybe you’re prepping the meal of chicken cutlets, DeVito style.

6
Milwaukee Bucks at New York Knicks, 12 p.m. on ESPN

The Knicks could make this close … or they won’t have anyone to contain Giannis Antetokounmpo and this game will be over by 1:30 p.m.

5
Philadelphia 76ers at Miami Heat, 8 p.m. on ESPN

Joel Embiid will be out, which significantly downgrades this game.

4
Boston Celtics at Los Angeles Lakers, 5 p.m. on ABC and ESPN

Oh heck yeah, LeBron vs. the Celtics. A perfect appetizer as you get ready for dinner.

3
Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs, 1 p.m. on CBS

The game itself may not be close — we’ll see! — but also Taylor Swift could be there.

2
Golden State Warriors at Denver Nuggets, 2:30 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN

Nikola Jokic AND Steph Curry? The stars are indeed brightly shining. Plus it’s the middle of the afternoon, so you all might need a rest after a busy morning.