Washington Wizards: 3 matchups to watch on Christmas Day game against Celtics

2. Otto Porter Jr. vs. Jayson Tatum

Otto Porter Jr. finds himself with the task of guarding one of the more rangy and athletic rookies in the NBA in Jayson Tatum. Porter is having a decent season since signing a four-year, $107 million deal in the offseason. He’s averaging 14.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 45.1 percent from 3-point range. He’s shooting at a decent rate from behind the arc but will have his work cut out for him against Jayson Tatum.

Tatum has the title of a rookie, but he is shedding that title with each game played with the Celtics. He’s probably one of the better rookies to play on a winning team this season and it’s shown as he’s started in all 35 games. The rookie out of Duke is averaging 13.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the 3-point arc. He’s made a 3-pointer in all but seven games this year. With a game on the big stage, he’s liable to catch fire.

Porter vs. Tatum is one matchup that comes down to whoever hits bigger shots. They’ve both shown they’re capable, although Tatum still needs to show more of his killer instinct in getting touches.