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Toronto Raptors @ Indiana Pacers
The Raptors and Pacers both boast some of the best perimeter players in the Eastern Conference. Kyle Lowry and Paul George are both quietly putting up great numbers and will probably be in the MVP discussion all season. This has the makings to be an entertaining start to your NBA week.
Milwaukee Bucks @ Los Angeles Lakers
The Bucks just upset the Warriors, and the Lakers…well, they’re still the Lakers. However, the Bucks are not who we thought they would be defensively. Even with the Lakers being ranked 27th in offensive efficiency, they might be able to put up some points. And by they, I mean Kobe. This could be one of those throwback Kobe performances as his retirement tour continues.
Charlotte Hornets @ Orlando Magic
I had Orlando as my sleeper in the East to make a playoff run. And while they’re in the mix, Charlotte has been the early season surprise in the Southeast. After losing Michael Kidd-Gilchrist for the year, the Hornets have gotten contributions from just about everyone. Orlando continues to play games that come right down to the wire which continues to make them league pass gold.
Oklahoma City Thunder @ Cleveland Cavaliers
With Paul George and Kawhi Leonard seriously entering the best small forward discussion, we get Kevin Durant vs. LeBron James in primetime on TNT. Make no mistake, when these two are at the top of their game, they are the two best players in the league. This has the makings to be an all-time duel between two of the best. With the Thunder up-and-down and the Cavs sliding as of late, both teams need a stepping stone win heading into big matchups on Christmas Day.
Los Angeles Clippers @ San Antonio Spurs
Friday night’s ESPN doubleheader starts with a rematch of the epic 7-game first round series from the 2015 Playoffs. The Spurs are quietly only 4 games back of Golden State, who just lost their first game. The Clippers just aren’t meshing like everyone thought they would and there have even been rumors of a trade in the works. This marquee matchup should be a great start to your wild Friday night.
Chicago Bulls @ New York Knicks
Remember in The Dark Knight Rises when Bruce Wayne finally gets a haircut and puts the mask on again? Well Derrick Rose got his haircut and took off the mask and is coming for Gotham. He may not be the same player he was before the injuries, and he may be having a career worst year, but I’m a believer in haircuts. I’m also a believer in Jimmy Butler, so that helps Chicago. Expect a thrilling showdown as Melo and his Knicks battle for Gotham against Butler and his Bulls.