For some fans, next week might be the last full week where they get to see their favorite baller playing for their city. Trades could easily whisk any player away to another team, and as the NBA trade deadline approaches, popular players could be moved around.
We look at some of the best games while trying to ignore those pesky trade rumors.
January 29: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets
Where should we start? We have a “LeBron James versus Dillon Brooks” angle. We also have a “LeBron James versus Ime Udoka” angle. James seems to have a lot of enemies, huh? We already know that Brooks’ trash-talking James is an ongoing story, but what surprised us was when coach Udoka got ejected for arguing with the basketball superstar last month. Anyway, James facing Brooks and Udoka should make this game entertaining.
January 30: Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics
The Pacers probably added Pascal Siakam to ensure they can compete with some of the top teams, right? Well, facing the Celtics should be a good test, then. The new-look Pacers going against the No. 1 team in the Eastern Conference could tell NBA fans a lot, especially if they win. Remember that the Celtics have one of the best home records, so a win in Boston will definitely send a statement.
January 31: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Portland Trail Blazers
Are the fans going to boo or cheer Damian Lillard when he returns to Oregon? An important piece in Portland’s basketball history, Lillard should be welcomed with applause and adoration. All those “Dame Time” moments will live forever in the minds of Blazer-mania fanatics. Another thing that fans should do is cheer for Pat Connaughton and Robin Lopez, who were fan favorites when they played for Portland.
January 31: Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance always stands out every time he faces the Nuggets. In the first game, you could blame him for his team’s loss after coming up with a shocking seven-point effort. With the second one, he redeemed himself by hitting the game-winning shot. In the third game, he scored 40 points in a win. We can only guess what he is going to do next.
February 1: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics
When the Lakers visit Boston, their Christmas Day loss to the Celtics will serve as the motivating factor. Yes, Anthony Davis scored 40 points in that game, but the Celtics countered with balanced scoring as all starters scored double figures. The Celtics were even up by around 18 points during the first quarter, which surely ruined the Yuletide atmosphere inside Crypto.com Arena.
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