The 2001-2002 season Christmas game schedule featured Toronto Raptors vs. New York Knicks, and Philadelphia 76ers visiting Los Angeles Lakers.
These were the two matchups the league carefully selected for their high entertainment value.
With Vince Carter, the Toronto Raptors were extremely popular, and their tickets sold very well. People idolized Carter's dunks like they once did Michael Jordan.
For young fans, championships weren't as important; playing beautifully and stylishly was a priority.
As for the New York Knicks, after reaching the finals in 1999, they fell into crisis.
Kemp was out of shape, and Mourning's kidney disease put his career in jeopardy, causing the Knicks to lose their competitive edge in the Eastern Conference, unable to challenge the Boston Celtics.
Jeff Van Gundy resigned as head coach after coaching 20 games this season. Despite decent results under him, Van Gundy was mentally and physically exhausted.
