Feb 16, 2019; Charlotte, NC, USA; Team Lebron forward Lebron James of the Los Angeles Lakers (23) talks with Team Lebron guard Kyrie Irving of the Boston Celtics (11) during NBA All-Star Game practice at the Bojangles Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
The NBA finally released their full schedule for next season, which means fans can actually start making plans for the biggest matchups of the season. It also means we know exactly when superstar players will be returning to thier old teams and when we'll see the marquee teams square off. Of course, the Lakers and Clippers dominate the national TV schedule this year, but it's worth noting that the New Orleans Pelicans have 30, yes 30, national TV games this year. The Zion effect is very real.
With so much talent spread out across the league this year, the regular season will be more interesting than ever, and should lead to plenty of nights where league pass is must-see TV. Also of note, it looks like the NBA is feeling for the East Coast, with the majority of naitonal TV doubleheaders starting around 30 minutes earlier than in years past. Of course, with the Lakers and Clippers the biggest draws in the NBA, this goes a long way to make sure East Coast fans can catch more games.
Of course, with the schedule now out, the Complex Sports team had to have some fun and pick out the most anticipated games for the upcoming season. The NBA can't get here soon enough.
January 10: Zion Williamson Makes His MSG Debut
On January 10, Zion Williamson will make his MSG debut. Knicks fans had hoped his would be in a Knicks uniform, but things didn't break that way. Still, Zion against his former Duke teammate RJ Barrett in the Garden will be must-see TV.
December 11: Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto
Kawhi's return to the Toronto Raptors will be one of the biggest moments of the early NBA season. It's safe to assume that the Raptors will give Kawhi his championship ring on this night, which means there should be nothing but love from the crowd. The game should also be pretty awesome.
November 27: AD Goes Back to New Orleans
The night before Thanksgiving is going to be EPIC in the NBA. Not only is this the first time Anthony Davis returns to play his former team, but it's also the first game between Zion and LeBron James. I literally can't wait. I'm pretty sure AD's welcome in New Orleans won't be that great, which only adds to the fireworks.
November 27: Kyrie Irving's Return to Boston
Yes, this could have easily been Russell Westbrook's return to OKC, but in my opinion, that game will be a whole lot of love from the fans to Russ, as it should be. With Kyrie's return to Boston on the night before Thanksgiving, we're going to see some actual bad blood. Sign me the hell up for that one.
December 25: Battle for Los Angeles on Xmas
Yes, the Lakers and Clippers play on opening night, but I like this matchup better on the schedule. During the first month of the NBA teams aren't really in their groove, so who knows what that first game will lead to. However, the game on Xmas? Oh man, that is going to be a true battle. LeBron vs. Kawhi. Paul George vs. Anthony Davis. The marquee matchup of the NBA. I need it.