It’s a special Christmas Eve edition of Benched, and instead of benching players, Allen Maldonado and Coach Dave are spreading holiday cheer Lakers-style 🎄🏀

From a hilarious NBA Christmas poem to a full Lakers wish list—including gifts for LeBron James, Austin Reaves, DeAndre Ayton, and more—this episode blends hoops, humor, heart, and holiday spirit.

What do you give a team chasing banner #18? Consistency, confidence, defense… and maybe a fifth ring for the King 👑

🎁 Topics include:
• Lakers Christmas Day matchup
• Coach Dave’s legendary holiday poem
• Dream gifts for every Lakers player
• LeBron’s legacy & leadership
• Why this episode benches no one

Hit Subscribe, spread the love, and enjoy this warm-fireplace holiday episode of Benched. Merry Christmas and go Lakers! 💜💛

00:00 Welcome to the Benched Christmas Eve Special
00:38 Pre-Game Nerves & Holiday Energy
01:38 Coach Dave’s Lakers Christmas Poem 🎅🏀
04:26 Lakers Christmas Wish List Begins
05:24 What Do You Give LeBron James?
06:40 DeAndre Ayton’s “Bag” & Flowers
07:24 Marcus Smart the Pit Bull
07:44 Gabe Vincent & Rotation Talk
08:21 Unsung Heroes & Earning Minutes
09:08 Tough Love & Trade Talk
09:56 Bronny James & Confidence
10:32 Lakers Legends Holiday Shoutouts
13:00 What the Lakers Really Need for Christmas
14:36 No One Gets Benched (It’s Christmas!)
15:18 Final Holiday Wishes 🎄