The NBA has officially unveiled its full 2024-25 regular-season schedule, offering fans and analysts alike a rich tapestry of matchups rife with emotional returns and fresh storylines. The schedule is set to showcase pivotal moments as familiar faces return to new arenas, now wearing different jerseys.
Klay Thompson's Emotional Homecoming
One of the season's most anticipated events is undoubtedly Klay Thompson's game against his longtime team, the Golden State Warriors. After 13 unforgettable years with the team, Thompson's exit has not gone unnoticed. As one observer noted, "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."
Thompson’s departure paved the way for significant roster changes in Golden State, illustrated by the Warriors signing Jordan Poole and Draymond Green to a combined $240 million deal. The revamped roster will face its own set of challenges even as it eagerly anticipates Thompson’s return.
Paul George Faces the Clippers
Paul George will have his first opportunity to face the Clippers following a somewhat acrimonious separation. The team elected not to offer him a max contract, causing a rift that fans will be eagerly watching play out on the court.
James Harden Against the 76ers
Not to be outdone, James Harden is slated for a high-stakes game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Harden, who forced his way out of Philadelphia, previously made a powerful statement in his last encounter with the 76ers by scoring 16 points and dishing out 14 assists in a narrow one-point Clippers victory. That game undoubtedly adds an extra layer of intensity to the upcoming matchup.
Adding to the narrative, the 76ers are still reeling from their 2023 Eastern Conference semifinals loss to the Boston Celtics, a defeat that cost head coach Doc Rivers his job. Nick Nurse stepped in to replace Rivers but has yet to lead the team past the first round.
Other Noteworthy Returns and Trades
Ben Simmons will also return to play in Philadelphia on November 22, marking another chapter in his turbulent journey with the team. Meanwhile, Obi Toppin, who was traded from New York to Indiana, has secured a $60 million deal with his new team.
The Atlanta Hawks made headlines by drafting Zaccharie Risacher over Alex Sarr, showing their confidence in Risacher’s potential. Similarly, Isaiah Hartenstein secured an $87 million deal with the Thunder, who then traded Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso. Regarding Giddey’s trade, an observer noted, "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."
The New York Knicks have been active in the trade market, sending five first-round picks and Bojan Bogdanovic to the Nets in exchange for Mikal Bridges. R.J. Barrett and Immanuel Quickley were traded to Toronto for OG Anunoby, with Barrett scoring 20 points, logging eight rebounds, and four assists in his return to Madison Square Garden, and Quickley contributing 12 points in the same game.
The Kings made a significant move by acquiring DeMar DeRozan, a deal that included Alex Caruso and Andre Drummond but did not involve any first-round draft picks. Kyrie Irving is also set to make a notable return to Brooklyn on March 24, a game that promises high drama given Irving's storied past with the Nets.
Russell Westbrook’s Unfinished Business with the Lakers
Russell Westbrook, known for his intensity, will face the Los Angeles Lakers, from whom he was traded. A sports analyst commented on the perennial tension, "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 a plethora of exceptional matchups and significant player movements, the 2024-25 NBA season is shaping up to be one filled with compelling storylines and intense competition. Fans won’t want to miss the return of these familiar faces, each bringing their own brand of drama and excitement back to the court.