The NBA recently unveiled its highly-anticipated 2024-25 regular-season schedule, promising fans an eventful series of games that will feature both reunions and rivalries.
Return of Familiar Faces
One of the highlight moments of the new schedule is Klay Thompson's return to the court to face his longtime team, the Golden State Warriors. Thompson, a cornerstone of the Warriors dynasty, spent 13 illustrious years with the team before his departure. The sentiment around his exit has been palpable. “Who knows what the actual numbers or official offers were, if there even was one by the end, but you can bet Thompson feels like the Warriors pushed him out the door,” remarked an insider.
The Warriors have been busy themselves, signing Jordan Poole and Draymond Green to a combined $240 million deal, signaling their continued commitment to remaining competitive. Paul George will also be in the spotlight as he faces off against the Clippers, the team that declined to offer him a max contract.
High-Stakes Matchups
James Harden’s return to play against the 76ers is another highly-anticipated game. Harden forced his way out of Philadelphia, adding layers of intrigue to their upcoming matchup. His last encounter with the 76ers was a nail-biter, where he registered 16 points and 14 assists, leading the Clippers to a one-point victory.
The 76ers are also dealing with their own upheavals, having lost in the 2023 Eastern Conference semifinals to the Boston Celtics. This defeat led to the firing of head coach Doc Rivers and the hiring of Nick Nurse, who unfortunately was unable to lead the team past the first round.
Key Trades and New Beginnings
Ben Simmons will make a notable appearance in Philadelphia on November 22. Meanwhile, Obi Toppin’s move from New York to Indiana, coupled with a $60 million deal, marks another significant off-season trade. In a bold draft move, the Atlanta Hawks chose Zaccharie Risacher over Alex Sarr.
On the financial front, Isaiah Hartenstein's $87 million deal with the Thunder was noteworthy. The Thunder didn't stop there; they traded Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso. As one observer noted, “It made sense. Giddey needs the ball in his hands to be his best and he was never going to get that opportunity in Oklahoma City with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at the helm.” This trade aligns with Giddey's impressive performance for Australia in the Olympics.
Significant Acquisitions and Trades
The trading frenzy continued with the New York Knicks giving up five first-round picks and Bojan Bogdanovic to acquire Mikal Bridges from the Nets. In another blockbuster trade, the Knicks sent R.J. Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Toronto for OG Anunoby. Barrett shone in his return to Madison Square Garden, scoring 20 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and dishing out four assists, while Quickley contributed 12 points.
The Kings also made headlines by acquiring DeMar DeRozan and sending Alex Caruso and Andre Drummond in return, all without yielding a single first-round draft pick, a move that has certainly piqued the interest of NBA analysts.
Anticipated Comebacks
Kyrie Irving will return to Brooklyn on March 24, an event that Nets fans will undoubtedly mark on their calendars. Similarly, Russell Westbrook is set to play against the Lakers, where emotions are expected to run high. As one sports analyst commented, “Westbrook goes full tilt every time he steps on any court, and this won't be the first time he's played the Lakers since he was traded. But my guess is there will always be a little extra vinegar in the tank when he plays in front of the Lakers fans from here on out.”
With so many familiar faces in new places and numerous high-stakes matchups on the horizon, the 2024-25 NBA season promises no shortage of drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments.