Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers: Bold predictions for Christmas night

2. Kevin Durant dominates battle with LeBron James

Over the years, Kevin Durant and LeBron James have had plenty of primetime meetings — particularly during the NBA Finals. The shootouts these two have been involved in were some of the best we’ve seen in recent memory, and this Christmas matchup should be no different.

However, in this instance, I believe Durant is going to get the best of James.

Surprisingly, the two have been putting up nearly identical numbers this season despite LeBron needing to be the driving force behind the Lakers’ rise to relevance. Tonight, though, it’s going to be all about Durant and what he brings to this Warriors lineup.

As we all know, KD is one of the NBA’s top scorers. His ability to create points at any given moment is nearly unparalleled, even by the all-time great James. And even though LeBron will do everything in his power to keep Durant from taking over the game, sometimes even a legend like the King can’t stop a freight train on his own.

The Lakers may have plenty of talent on the defensive end, but slowing Durant is like trying to tame a lion with a flyswatter — all you’re going to do is anger him. James will do his best to keep things in check, but don’t be surprised if Durant puts on a performance for the ages against the Lakers.