The NBA has officially unveiled its full 2024-25 regular-season schedule, setting the stage for some highly anticipated matchups that will see familiar faces donning new jerseys in front of old crowds.
Klay Thompson's Long-Awaited Return
Among the most exciting returns is Klay Thompson's matchup against his longtime team, the Golden State Warriors. Thompson, who spent 13 years with the Warriors, will face off against his former teammates for the first time since his departure. The absence of Thompson looms large for Warriors fans, as he was instrumental in their championship runs.
"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," commented one observer, underscoring the mixed emotions surrounding his exit. The Warriors have moved forward by signing Jordan Poole and Draymond Green to a combined $240 million deal, but Thompson’s absence will undoubtedly be felt.
Paul George and The Clippers
Another highly-anticipated game features Paul George in his first game against the Los Angeles Clippers, the team that declined to offer him a max contract. For George, this is more than just another game—it's a statement to the front office that let him walk. Expectations are high as fans eagerly wait to see how he performs against his former team.
James Harden vs. The 76ers
James Harden's departure from the Philadelphia 76ers was nothing short of dramatic, culminating in a forced exit. Harden will face the 76ers in what promises to be an electrifying matchup. His last encounter with them saw him put up 16 points and 14 assists in a one-point victory for his new team, the Los Angeles Clippers.
The 76ers, who lost in the 2023 Eastern Conference semifinals to the Boston Celtics, have undergone significant changes since. Following that loss, head coach Doc Rivers was relieved of his duties and replaced by Nick Nurse. Despite the coaching change, the team failed to advance past the first round of the playoffs.
Ben Simmons' Philadelphia Visit
In another compelling storyline, Ben Simmons will play in Philadelphia on November 22. This comes after a tumultuous period with the 76ers, raising the stakes for what promises to be an emotionally charged game.
Obi Toppin and the Pacers
Obi Toppin, who was traded from the New York Knicks to the Indiana Pacers, has been quick to make his mark. The Pacers rewarded Toppin with a $60 million deal, demonstrating their belief in his potential. This new chapter in Toppin’s career will be one to watch, as he looks to prove his worth in Indiana.
Thunder's Bold Moves
The Oklahoma City Thunder have also been active, signing Isaiah Hartenstein to an $87 million deal. In a surprising move, the Thunder traded Josh Giddey to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Alex Caruso. While Giddey had shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with the Australian Olympic team, his need to dominate the ball ultimately made his stay in Oklahoma City untenable. "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," noted an observer regarding the trade.
Knicks' Major Trades
The New York Knicks made headlines by trading five first-round picks and Bojan Bogdanovic to the Brooklyn Nets for Mikal Bridges. Additionally, R.J. Barrett and Immanuel Quickley were traded to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for OG Anunoby. In his return to Madison Square Garden, Barrett put up 20 points, logged eight rebounds, and four assists, while Quickley contributed 12 points, underscoring their continued value.
Kings' Business Deals
The Sacramento Kings have not been left behind, acquiring DeMar DeRozan in a trade that saw Alex Caruso and Andre Drummond move to the Kings. Remarkably, the Kings managed to pull off the deal without yielding a single first-round draft pick, demonstrating their strategic finesse.
High-Profile Returns
Not to be overlooked are the returns of Kyrie Irving to Brooklyn and Russell Westbrook to the Lakers' court. Irving's return is set for March 24, while Westbrook will face the Lakers, from whom he was famously traded. A sports analyst commented on the latter: "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 an array of dramatic returns and high-stakes matchups, the 2024-25 NBA season promises to be one for the ages, brimming with narratives that will captivate basketball fans worldwide.