With the NBA Lockout now in the rear view mirror, the league will begin salvaging what is left of the 2011-12 season by announcing its schedule on Tuesday at 7pm. The 2011-12 season will be slimmed down to a 66 game schedule and will begin play on Christmas day with a five game showcase. Each game will be televised nationally on either TNT, ABC or ESPN.
Here is a look at the full Christmas Day lineup:
Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks, 12pm ET - TNT
Miami Heat vs. Dallas Mavericks, 2:30 pm ET - ABC
Chicago Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 5 pm ET - ABC
Orlando Magic vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, 8pm ET - ESPN
Los Angeles Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors, 10:30 pm ET - ESPN
The 2011-12 regular season will be made up of 48 conference games and 18 out of conference games. Teams will also face at least one back-to-back-to-back situation and no more than three. Back-to-back games in the playoffs will be possible in the second round only.
Each NBA team will play two preseason games, a home-and-home series against a geographically close opponent. The Atlanta Hawks will tip off their preseason schedule on Monday, December 19 in Charlotte against the Bobcats. They will play their final tune up game on December 22 at home also against Charlotte.
For more on the Atlanta Hawks be sure to check out Peachtree Hoops.