With the NBA season still months away, we all are missing some basketball action from our favorite NBA players and teams. Luckily, the league has already released the nationally televised game schedule for the opening week of basketball, and here are some that I’ll be looking forward to.
Celtics vs. 76ers
I’m excited for the Boston Celtics versus Philadelphia 76ers game because those teams have quite intriguing questions coming into the season.
For Boston, was last year a fluke? Is getting Malcolm Brogdon and Danilo Gallinari enough? How is Jaylen Brown feeling after being in trade talks? Is Jayson Tatum ready to become a superstar/MVP candidate in this league?
For Philadelphia, is Harden in shape, and what will be his form this year? Plus, is he really a winner after taking a substantial pay cut? Will Joel Embiid finally get his MVP award? Will they once again fall short or finally make the NBA finals?
Some of these can be answered in that first game and it can dictate the momentum that these teams will bring through the season.
Clippers vs. Lakers
Another game I’m looking forward to is the battle of Los Angeles, the Clippers versus the Lakers.
The Clippers had the worst of luck last year with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George missing loads of time. In spite of this, they still managed to be above .500. With Kawhi looking swole, PG recovered, and the signing of John Wall, this team looks poised to make a strong run.
Also, what better way for the Clippers to make a statement than against LeBron James? The Lakers may still be working out the kinks under new head coach Darwin Ham, but expect LeBron to go at it against The Klaw.
Suns vs. Mavericks
Lastly, I’m keeping my eyes on the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks game. The last time we saw this matchup, the Suns were up 2-0 in the series and the Mavericks rallied to win in seven games, ending it in a good, old-fashioned beatdown. There are also some intriguing storylines for both of these teams.
For Phoenix, was re-signing Deandre Ayton the right move? Is he even happy in the Valley? Was making the Finals two seasons ago just that one good year? How many more years does Chris Paul have left in the tank?
For Dallas, is Christian Wood going to be a bust or a boom? Does Luka Doncic have enough help? Who is going to step up after the departure of Jalen Brunson? How far can skinny Luka carry this team?
All I can say is this: every year the league just gets more exciting.
