We gave the Spurs some shine on last week’s edition of Games of the Week, and both times, they came up flat. In their defense, they were without Tim Duncan, but still, I apologize. A new week brings new matchups, and a west coast showdown that features the best shot makers in the game.
Dallas Mavericks @ Atlanta Hawks
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Mark Cuban and his Dallas Mavericks come into Sir Foster’s musical playground as the Hawks host the Mavs to kick off February. Both teams have nearly identical records and similar advanced stats according to ESPN’s Hollinger team stats. Both teams also come into this game with less than stellar records in their last 10 games. Both need mini win streaks to continue to keep pace, who starts the month off with a win?
Miami Heat @ Houston Rockets
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It’s weird to think that a team that was on the cusp of being .500 and out of the playoff standings would have two All-Stars. Well, Chris Bosh absolutely deserves it, and ever since Dwyane Wade was announced as a starter, he’s been a slightly grounded version of Flash. This makes for an exciting Fan Night matchup on NBATV as the two South Beach All-Stars take their talents to Clutch City and face the man who’s running up the budget over at Adidas.
Toronto Raptors @ Portland Trail Blazers
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NBA fans, Toronto is legit. Coming into this week, the Raptors are on an 11-game win streak. They have the best backcourt in the East in lean Lowry and DeRozan, and are doing all of this without DeMarre Carroll. Out in the Pacific Northwest, Portland has been way better than everyone’s expectation. With their backcourt of All-Star snub, Damian Lillard, and Most Improved Player candidate, C.J. Mccollum, the Blazers are exciting and in the playoff race. Expect an entertaining game dominated by tough shot making guards.
Boston Celtics @ Cleveland Cavaliers
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Cleveland gets blown out by the Warriors and then whips up their own blowout against the Spurs; weird how the NBA works sometimes. The Celtics are an up-and-down team, but right now, they are way up, they feel blessed (I actually have never heard this song before – thanks Riley Curry). This is a rematch of an injury filled playoff series that is sure to get heated.
Oklahoma City Thunder @ Golden State Warriors
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When asked about playing the Thunder and his Carolina Panthers playing in the Super Bowl the following night, Stephen Curry didn’t hold back, “It’ll be a good 48 hours — a win and a win,” according to Bay Area News Group. Although the quote isn’t as brash as I would’ve hoped, this is great. I’d love WWE style promo’s in the NBA, it’d make for hurt feelings in incredible ratings. These two teams have the best collective shot making ability in the league, and it’ll be on full display Saturday night. This is a must-see game as FIVE Western Conference All-Stars square off in Oracle.
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