Assuming the NBA has moved past the disquieting 18 months that yielded its past two champions, it makes perfect sense to expect a more “traditional” Finals in 2022. And for myriad reasons, the most traditional-looking Finals would pit the Nets against the Lakers—a clash the NBA has reportedly scheduled for Christmas Day.
We’re still 10 months away from any such series actually taking place, but this pair of preseason contenders supplies a thrilling need for conjecture, with big-picture ramifications and considerable hyperbole. The star power and name recognition would be extensive. The story lines would be overwhelming.