LeBron James Hypes Steph Curry Matchup Ahead of Lakers vs. Warriors on Christmas Day

LeBron James is looking forward to his latest matchup against Stephen Curry when the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors square off on Christmas Day.

Speaking to reporters about the rivalry (starts at :40 mark), James said he "always" looks forward to playing "versus one of the greatest to ever play this game" is not something to take for granted because you never know how many more opportunities they will have to square off.

The battles between James and Curry have helped to define this era of the NBA. Wednesday's game will mark the 53rd all-time meeting between the two future Hall of Famers.

Curry leads the head-to-head rivalry 29-23, including a 134-120 Golden State victory in their most recent meeting on April 9. He also has a 17-11 advantage against James in the playoffs, including a 3-1 series record in four NBA Finals meetings.

This latest matchup will also mark the first time James and Curry have played against each other after teaming up to help the United States win the gold medal at the 2024 Olympics.

James was named the MVP of the men's Olympic tournament for his consistent excellence throughout, but Curry came alive in the final two games to help the U.S. avoid a massive upset against Serbia and to seal the win in the gold-medal game against France.

"It was everything and more," James told reporters in October about his Olympic experience with Curry.

While fans continue to hold out some hope that James and Curry might play for the same team again before their careers end, they will have to settle for watching them try to outmaneuver each other as opponents.

James and the Lakers will look to end their three-game losing streak against the Warriors at Chase Center on Christmas Day at 8 p.m. ET.