The 2024-25 NBA season is just around the corner, and basketball fans are buzzing with excitement. With a packed schedule full of intriguing matchups, here are the top 10 games you absolutely must watch this season. These games promise drama, high stakes, and plenty of star power.
1. Ring Night Rivalry: New York Knicks at Boston Celtics (October 22)
The season tips off with a bang as the reigning champion Boston Celtics host their historic rivals, the New York Knicks. This isn’t just any season opener—it’s ring night for the Celtics, adding an extra layer of drama to an already intense matchup. The Knicks, always a formidable opponent, will look to spoil the party and send an early message to the rest of the league.
2. Giannis vs. Embiid: Milwaukee Bucks at Philadelphia 76ers (October 23)
In what could be an early preview of an Eastern Conference Finals clash, the Milwaukee Bucks take on the Philadelphia 76ers. Both teams are hungry to redeem themselves after early playoff exits last season. This game will be a true test of their offseason improvements, with two of the league’s biggest stars, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid, going head-to-head in a battle of the titans.
3. Rising Stars Showdown: Memphis Grizzlies at Houston Rockets (October 25)
Get ready for a clash of the future as the Memphis Grizzlies visit the Houston Rockets. Ja Morant’s return to the court is highly anticipated, and this young Grizzlies team is ready to make noise in the West. On the other side, the Rockets, fueled by their promising young core, are looking to establish themselves as a playoff contender. This early-season matchup will be a litmus test for both teams.
4. Battle of the Big Men: San Antonio Spurs at Oklahoma City Thunder (October 30)
All eyes will be on the paint as Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, two of the league’s most exciting young big men, face off in Oklahoma City. Wembanyama, the reigning Rookie of the Year, and Holmgren, who had an outstanding rookie campaign himself, are both looking to lead their teams to new heights. This game could mark the beginning of a new rivalry in the NBA.
5. Playoff Rematch: Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves (November 1)
The Timberwolves stunned the basketball world last season by knocking off the defending champion Nuggets in a thrilling playoff series. Now, the Nuggets are back for revenge in this early-season rematch. Expect a high-intensity game as both teams vie for supremacy in the Western Conference.
6. Homecoming Drama: Dallas Mavericks at Golden State Warriors (November 12)
Klay Thompson returns to the Bay Area, but this time in a Mavericks jersey. After 13 years and multiple championships with the Warriors, seeing Thompson on the opposing team will be a surreal experience for fans. The emotion of the night, coupled with the on-court action, makes this a must-see game.
7. Wembanyama vs. The King: Los Angeles Lakers at San Antonio Spurs (November 15)
When the Spurs take on the Lakers, all eyes will be on Victor Wembanyama as he faces off against LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Last season, Wembanyama put up impressive numbers against the Lakers, and this game will be his first chance to show that he can compete with the best. Expect a showcase of talent and a glimpse into the future of the league.
8. Old-School Rivalry: Indiana Pacers at Milwaukee Bucks (November 22)
One of the NBA’s fiercest rivalries takes center stage as the Pacers visit the Bucks. After meeting 11 times last season across various competitions, including the playoffs, these two teams have developed a genuine dislike for each other. This game is sure to be filled with intensity, physicality, and possibly some fireworks.
9. Christmas Clash: Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors (December 25)
Christmas Day brings us a gift in the form of a showdown between LeBron James and Steph Curry. These two legends, who recently teamed up to win gold for Team USA, are back on opposite sides in this highly anticipated game. With both players possibly nearing the twilight of their careers, every matchup between them is a must-watch.
10. Finals Rematch: Boston Celtics at Dallas Mavericks (January 25)
The first rematch of last season’s NBA Finals won’t come until January, but it’s sure to be worth the wait. The Celtics and Mavericks, both packed with star power and seeking to prove their dominance, will go head-to-head in what could be a Finals preview for the second year in a row. With Kristaps Porzingis expected to be back from injury, this game will be loaded with storylines.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 NBA season is packed with must-watch games that offer everything from intense rivalries to legendary showdowns. Whether you’re a fan of rising stars or established superstars, this season’s schedule has something for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable season of basketball.
