The NBA has officially revealed its complete schedule for the 2024-25 regular season, setting the stage for a series of highly anticipated matchups and homecomings that are sure to capture the attention of basketball fans everywhere.
Klay Thompson's Return
One of the standout storylines is Klay Thompson's return to face his longtime team, the Golden State Warriors. Thompson, who spent 13 years with the Warriors, will undoubtedly evoke strong emotions as he steps onto the court against his former teammates. Speculation has been rampant about how his exit was handled, with some insiders suggesting Thompson felt pushed out. "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," noted one observer. In Thompson's absence, the Warriors have invested heavily in their roster, signing Jordan Poole and Draymond Green to a combined $240 million deal.
Paul George Faces the Clippers
Another significant return sees Paul George going up against the Los Angeles Clippers, the team that chose not to offer him a max contract. This game promises to be a pivotal moment for George as he confronts the franchise that let him walk. Similar tension surrounds James Harden, who will have his first game against the Philadelphia 76ers since forcing his way out of the city. Harden's last encounter with the 76ers was memorable, as he recorded 16 points and 14 assists in a nail-biting one-point victory for the Clippers.
Changes in Philly
The 76ers' recent history has been tumultuous. Following a disappointing loss in the 2023 Eastern Conference semifinals to the Boston Celtics, the team parted ways with head coach Doc Rivers. His replacement, Nick Nurse, was unable to steer the 76ers past the first round. These changes add another layer of intrigue to Harden’s upcoming face-off with his former team.
Simmons, Toppin, and Draft Decisions
Ben Simmons' return to Philadelphia set for November 22 is also sure to be a marquee event. Meanwhile, Obi Toppin will face his old team, the New York Knicks, after being traded to Indiana, where he secured a $60 million deal. The Indiana Pacers will be keen to capitalize on Toppin's potential in their bid to bolster the team.
In the draft scene, the Atlanta Hawks made headlines by drafting Zaccharie Risacher over Alex Sarr, while Isaiah Hartenstein inked an $87 million deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a strategic move, the Thunder traded Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso. One analyst explained the rationale behind the trade: “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.” Giddey's impressive performances for Australia in the Olympics likely played a role in his trade value.
Major Trades and Deals
The Knicks were also active in the trade market, sending five first-round picks and Bojan Bogdanovic to the Nets in exchange for Mikal Bridges. Additionally, R.J. Barrett and Immanuel Quickley were traded to Toronto for OG Anunoby. Barrett made an impressive return to Madison Square Garden, scoring 20 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and dishing four assists. Quickley added 12 points in the same game, showcasing the depth of talent involved in these high-stakes moves.
Elsewhere, the Sacramento Kings made a significant acquisition by bringing in DeMar DeRozan. As part of the deal, Alex Caruso and Andre Drummond were moved to the Kings, who managed to retain all their first-round draft picks.
Irving and Westbrook's Returns
Kyrie Irving is slated to return to Brooklyn on March 24, while Russell Westbrook will take on the Lakers, the team that traded him away. Speaking on Westbrook’s upcoming matchups against the Lakers, a sports analyst remarked, "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."
The unveiling of the NBA's 2024-25 regular-season schedule highlights a series of dramatic returns and high-profile matchups. Fans will no doubt be eagerly watching as these narratives unfold on the court.