3 reasons why the Orlando Magic deserve a Christmas game this year

Playing on Christmas Day is an honor in the NBA. It is the day when the biggest stars and best teams compete to attract as many spectators as possible.

Last year, the Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns played against each other. On Christmas Day 2023, some great rivalries, the eventual NBA champions and six of the last eight MVP winners will collide.

In 2024, some of the same teams are likely to compete on Christmas Day. The Celtics will enter as defending champions, and the NBA likely won't miss an opportunity to add LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Luka Doncic to the team.

However, new teams also deserve a place in the race, and the Magic are one of them.

When it comes to highlighting and showcasing the league's stars during Christmas Day games, Paolo Banchero can't be overlooked. Named an All-Star in just his second season, Banchero led his young team to a somewhat surprising playoff appearance.

Not only is he the face of the Orlando Magic, but he's also one of the players who will lead a new generation of NBA stars. The league should take every chance it gets to develop the next generation, and Banchero is a part of that.

It won't be long before he's one of the best American players in the league. When he does, the league will benefit from fans knowing him. Giving him and the Magic a game on Christmas Day is a good step in the right direction.