Five Games To Watch This Week 12/8 - 12/14

Thursday's game between the Cavaliers and Thunder will be the
first matchup between Kevin Durant and Lebron James this season.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Memphis Grizzlies
Tuesday December 9, 2014 8:00pm NBATV
FedEx Forum, Memphis, TN

This is the first of four meetings between the two Southwest Division teams. Remember, these two were battling the last game of the season to avoid playing the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the playoffs. It wouldn't have been much better, as the Oklahoma City Thunder were the #2 seed in the Western Conference. At the end, it turned out great as the Mavericks took the Spurs to seven games in the first round, and the Grizzlies did the same to the Thunder. Despite the Mavericks having a 16-6 record, they are seventh in the Western Conference. It's a loaded conference so these wins will be important to whoever gets them.

Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors
Wednesday December 10, 2014 10:30pm
Oracle Arena, Oakland, CA

These two teams have the two best records in the NBA, so it should be a fun one to watch. The Warriors handed the Rockets their first loss of the season, and that was in Houston. The Warriors have not lost a game since losing to the Spurs at home on November 11th. That would be almost a whole month since losing a game, as new head coach Steve Kerr has had the offense looking more fluid. The Warriors have been improving over the years and now it appears as if they can contend for a championship. We'll see.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Thursday December 11, 2014 8:00pm TNT
Chesapeake Energy Arena, Oklahoma City, OK

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are back, so a matchup between Durant and Lebron James is always must-see television. The Thunder are currently six games under .500 due to the absence of both Durant and Westbrook, so they'll have to make up ground just to make the playoffs. It appears the other seven teams that represented the Western Conference in the postseason last year will be back in the postseason this year. The Kings and Suns are two teams who will look to break into the playoffs as well. It will not be easy. A win here for the Thunder will be big for their confidence.

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Washington Wizards
Friday December 12, 2014 7:00pm
Verizon Center, Washington, DC

Whenever you can get a game where two great point guards go up against one another, it's a must-watch. In this one, Chris Paul, regarded as the best point guard in the game by many, will go up against John Wall in the nation's capital. For the Clippers, this is the second game of a three game East Coast trip, so it isn't quite the long road trip they'll have coming up when the Grammy's come to the Staples Center later this season. One game separates both teams, but they are in different conferences, so it doesn't matter. Still, both teams would love to get a win here.

Golden State Warriors vs. Dallas Mavericks
Saturday December 13, 2014 2:00pm
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX

So in back to back games, the Warriors will play the Rockets and the Mavericks. Their game against the Rockets will be at home, so that's a little easier than this one despite the fact the Rockets are a better team than the Mavericks. However, this will start a three-game Midwest stretch for the Warriors where they'll play these Mavericks, Pelicans and Grizzlies. If the Warriors come out of that stretch at 3-0, I will be a believer in their championship contention aspirations. Losses to the Mavericks and Grizzlies will leave me thinking they are the same team of years past.

Five Games To Watch This Week 12/1 - 12/7

Tom Thibodeau will have to figure out how to stop
Dirk Nowitzki this Tuesday.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Chicago Bulls
Tuesday December 2, 2014 8:00pm
United Center, Chicago, IL

It's a surprise this game was voted as NBA TV's game to show. This is the game of the night and it's a game that features great matchups across the board. It's always interesting to see who will face Dirk Nowitzki. Nowitzki stretches the floor, so there are times when opposing coaches defend him with guards. Joakim Noah, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is very versatile as a defender, so he'll most likely get the assignment. Either way, this should be a close one. If the Mavericks can get a win in Chicago, it'll be good for their confidence.

Zach Randolph and the Grizzlies had their way in their first
matchup against the Rockets a couple of weeks ago.

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Houston Rockets
Wednesday December 3, 2014 8:00pm
Toyota Center, Houston, TX

Both teams are currently at least nine games over .500, and both teams are the top two teams in the Southwest Division right now. The Grizzlies beat the Rockets by 26 points in their first meeting in Memphis roughly two weeks ago, so the Rockets will naturally be looking for revenge. Dwight Howard is still having knee issues, so the Rockets are hoping he can return for this game. The Rockets didn't look good at home against another Western Conference contender in the Clippers without Howard. They'll get a true sense of where they stand against a team like the Grizzlies when they have a healthy Howard on the floor.

Lou Williams had 36 points off the bench for
the Raptors' victory over the Cavs in their first meeting.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Toronto Raptors
Friday December 5, 2014 7:30pm
Air Canada Centre, Toronto, ON

The Cavaliers were embarrassed in both team's first meeting that occurred in Cleveland. The Cavaliers had a double-digit lead, but let that slip away and were eventually beaten by 17 points. This time, it'll be in Canada, but the Raptors will be without leading scorer DeMar DeRozan. DeRozan tore a tendon in his groin recently, and it will sideline him for probably a month. It'll be hard to envision the Raptors beating the Cavaliers without their leading scorer, but it'll be a huge confidence booster if they can pull it off. It'll be even more of a disappointment for the Cavaliers if they can't win this one.

Kawhi Leonard is just as important in the Spurs' success as Tim
Duncan and Tony Parker are.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Memphis Grizzlies
Friday December 5, 2014 8:00pm
FedEx Forum, Memphis, TN

The Spurs are the defending champions, and they are sitting at 12-4 right now. However, they are currently sitting in third place in their own division thanks to great starts from these Grizzlies and the Rockets. This is the first of four meetings between these two teams, so these games could possibly matter if their records are close at the end of the season. The Spurs are still without two key components in Patty Mills and Tiago Splitter, and the Spurs never take these early season games that seriously anyway. The Spurs do have a game the following night, so this could possibly be a game where they rest people. However, they usually rest guys on the second night of back-to-backs, not the first.

Stephen Curry will look to have a big game offensively against
the defensive-minded Bulls.

Golden State Warriors vs. Chicago Bulls
Saturday December 6, 2014 8:00pm
United Center, Chicago, IL

If Derrick Rose is healthy and available for this one, the Warriors will most likely put Klay Thompson on him instead of having Stephen Curry on him. They also start Kirk Hinrich alongside Rose so Curry will be placed on him. This is important because Curry can fill it up. Curry is averaging just over 24 points a game so far, and they'll need his scoring against a solid defensive unit. The Warriors are normally in Chicago during a East Coast trip, but they'll just be in the Midwest for this game and a game two days later in Minneapolis. The Warriors have the second-best record in the NBA, so a win here will just continue to prove they can be a legitimate contender.

Five Games To Watch This Week 11/24 - 11/30

Zach Randolph and the Grizzlies will look for a great road win
over the Trailblazers this Friday.

Phoenix Suns vs. Toronto Raptors
Monday November 24, 2014 7:30pm
Air Canada Centre, Toronto, ON

Both teams are on solid four-game winning streaks, but for the Suns, this is the final game of their East Coast trip. They are currently 4-0, and it has helped them get hot after a fairly decent start to the season. Winning in Toronto will not be easy obviously, as the Raptors are showing a lot of people they are the real deal. They have returned everyone from the team that lost in Game 7 at home to the Nets last season. Consistency and familiarity has been critical in the Raptors' success, and a win here against a good Western Conference opponent will just continue to keep the Raptors confident.

Washington Wizards vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Wednesday November 26, 2014 7:00pm
Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland, OH

It was a rather easy win for the Wizards in the nation's capital a couple of days ago, so the Cavaliers will be looking for revenge. Currently mired in a four-game losing streak, it has become apparent Lebron James is trying to get the young players like Kyrie Irving and Dion Waiters to play more team-oriented basketball. When James joined the Miami Heat in 2010, James didn't have a problem getting Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to sacrifice for the better of the team. Here in Cleveland, Irving is still resorting to bad one-on-one shots and not getting others involved. This is a good game for the Cavaliers to get back to winning.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Toronto Raptors
Friday November 28, 2014 7:30pm
Air Canada Centre, Toronto, ON

Both teams have at least 10 wins and are at least six games over .500, so it appears both teams will be in the conversation next May. This will be a great early-season test for both teams, and this day will feature other great games as well. The Raptors have only lost twice so far, so let's see how long they can keep up the great play. They're not a dominant home team, as they already have lost at home to the Bulls earlier this season. However, they should look to take care of home court each and every home game. It'll be great if they can do that here.

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Houston Rockets
Friday November 28, 2014 8:00pm NBATV
Toyota Center, Houston, TX

The Clippers haven't been the NBA Finals contending team that many expected them to be coming into this season just yet. The Rockets, on the other hand, have been an improved team who looks ready to make a deep playoff run. Dwight Howard is currently out, and who knows if he'll be out during this game also. By this game, he would have had a good amount of days to rest. The Rockets will need him in defending the alley oops the Clippers love to do. However, it's just one regular season game in the month of November, so Howard should not be rushing back from injury for this one. Still, both teams would love to have this win.

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Portland Trailblazers
Friday November 28, 2014 10:00pm
Moda Center, Portland, OR

Both teams were in the postseason last year, and just like the Raptors, both the Grizzlies and Trailblazers return everyone from their postseason runs from last year. The Trailblazers are playing good defense, contributing to their nice start. They had even a better start last year, but for them, it should be more about the finish. They didn't play well in the second half of last season, falling to fifth place in the Western Conference after having the best record in the conference the majority of the first half of the season. For the Grizzlies, they are more than capable of coming into this environment and getting a victory. When Marc Gasol is healthy, combined with Zach Randolph, they can be title contenders as well.

Five Games To Watch This Week 10/28 - 11/2 (2014-2015 Season Edition)

Derrick Rose's Bulls and Lebron James' Cavaliers seem to be the
two best teams in the Eastern Conference. They'll face off Friday.

Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Tuesday October 28, 2014 10:30pm TNT
Staples Center, Los Angeles, CA

The Rockets are most likely much better than the Lakers, but this signals a brand new season for Kobe Bryant, who missed the majority of games last season due to the ruptured Achilles tendon suffered at the end of the 2012-2013 season, and then the fractured knee he suffered last season. The Lakers will also have a much different look, with Jeremy Lin and Carlos Boozer in the starting lineup. This is also the debut for Julius Randle. For the Rockets, we'll see how they may look without Chandler Parsons, a loss James Harden believes doesn't matter much. This is also the first time Dwight Howard will have faced Kobe Bryant since Howard's departure from the Lakers. Comments from Lakers' coach Byron Scott makes this even more interesting.

Chicago Bulls vs. New York Knicks
Wednesday October 29, 2014 8:00pm ESPN
Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

This is the return for Derrick Rose, which makes it the second consecutive season he's returning from a long absence. Last year, in the season opening game against the Heat, he was returning from missing an entire season. This time around, his return follows an absence that nearly took up the entire season. Pau Gasol also makes his debut with the Bulls. For the Knicks, we get to see them  show off the triangle offense in a real game. They are still learning how to mesh well in that offense, so it will take time. This is an interesting and curious season for the Knicks.

New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Thursday October 30, 2014 8:00pm TNT
Quicken Loans Arena, Cleveland, OH

This game is all about the return to Cleveland for Lebron James. It is still a little shocking he made the move to go back to Cleveland, but he's applauded by many for doing so. The last game James played with the Cavaliers was Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Celtics. That was a series in which James looked disinterested, despite putting up big numbers. Many people knew it was the end of his time in Cleveland. He broke many hearts making that move. He now has their hearts back.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Thursday October 30, 2014 10:30pm TNT
Staples Center, Los Angeles, CA

Kevin Durant won't be available for this one, so it may be a win for the Clippers. Still, whenever Serge Ibaka and Blake Griffin are in a game, they are always frustrating their opponent with their physical play and antics. Therefore, look for both to frustrate each other. You might get a dust-up in this one as well. Once the Thunder get Durant back, they'll be the same team returning from last year's squad that took the San Antonio Spurs to six games in the Western Conference Finals. The Clippers have added pieces and look better than last year. These team could most likely meet again in May.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Chicago Bulls
Friday October 31, 2014 8:00pm ESPN
United Center, Chicago, IL

Analysts are touting these two teams as the two best teams in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers obviously improved leaps and bounds by their acquisition of Lebron James. The Bulls, on the other hand, acquired Pau Gasol in free agency and are getting back a healthy Derrick Rose. They got a healthy Rose back last season as well, but that didn't last very long. Therefore, the Bulls were a middling team in the Eastern Conference playoff race yet again, and easily fell to the upstart Washington Wizards. The last time Rose was healthy for the majority of the season, they won 50 games in a lockout shortened 66 game season. Even then, he missed a solid number of games with nagging injuries, and then tore his ACL in the very first playoff game. The Bulls can be dominant if Rose plays the majority of the games.

Ten Games To Watch - Rest of Regular Season

The Clippers can still grab the 2 seed from the Thunder, so they'll
need to avoid fighting when these two teams meet this week.

Charlotte Bobcats vs. Washington Wizards
Wednesday April 9, 2014 7pm

Both teams have clinched playoff berths, but positioning is still at stake between the two teams. The Bobcats are in the playoffs for the second time in franchise history, making it for the first time in the 2009-2010 season. The Wizards are in the playoffs for the first time since the 2007-2008 season, so both teams have made solid improvement from a season ago. The Wizards are currently holding the 6 seed while the Bobcats are a game behind them and currently occupying the 7 seed. Earlier in the season, teams may have wanted to avoid the 7 or 8 seed because that meant playing the Heat or Pacers in the first round. However, with the Pacers struggling badly lately, it may not be a bad thing to see them in the first round. For the Bobcats and Wizards, would they rather face the Pacers or Raptors in the first round?

Miami Heat vs. Memphis Grizzlies 
Wednesday April 9, 2014 8pm ESPN

The Grizzlies entered Sunday holding the 8th and final seed in the Western Conference. However, they're tied with the Suns, so they need wins to pull ahead and stay in playoff positioning. For the Heat, they're looking to secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference. With the Pacers struggling, it appears that will happen. This game is more about the Grizzlies than it is the Heat. Many people forget the Grizzlies were in the Western Conference Finals last season. They may not be in the playoffs this season. If they can beat the Heat, it would be big for their confidence.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Wednesday April 9, 2014 10:30pm ESPN

The Clippers can still obtain the 2 seed in the Western Conference, with the Thunder holding a slight lead currently. The Clippers also hold an advantage in the season series between the two teams as well, so this game is more important for the Thunder to stay ahead. If the Clippers win this game, and both teams end the regular season with identical records, the Clippers would have home court advantage over the Thunder in a potential second-round matchup. The Thunder are capable of beating the Clippers, with or without home court advantage. However, nothing is guaranteed but having home court advantage in any series can only help.

Indiana Pacers vs. Miami Heat
Friday April 11, 2014 7:30pm NBATV

The Pacers struggles are well documented right now. They hold a season series advantage over the Heat, but a Heat win would even that up. The Pacers need this win desperately for numerous reasons. For one, it could help them capture the top seed in the conference by owning the tiebreaker. Secondly, the Pacers need a win against a marquee team for their confidence. They are just doubting themselves right now, and this is the worst time to be struggling. If the Heat are able to rout the Pacers, it may indicate the trade that sent Danny Granger to the 76ers for Evan Turner was a trade that probably shouldn't have been made.

Phoenix Suns vs. San Antonio Spurs
Friday April 11, 2014 8:30pm

This is a difficult game for the Suns as they look to get in the playoffs for the first time since Amare Stoudemire was there. The Spurs have been rolling, just recently having their 19 game winning streak broken. They are playing well at the right time, and the signing of Marco Bellineli is one of the more underrated free agency moves this past offseason. The Suns made some low key moves as well, and they have shocked most NBA fans. It would be a heartbreak if the Suns were unable to make the playoffs, as they have a lot of people cheering for their success. They have to get it done on the court, and they may get lucky as the Spurs have a game against the Mavericks the night before. Beating the Mavericks will help the Suns, and the Spurs will probably rest Tony Parker and Tim Duncan on the second night of back-to-backs.

Phoenix Suns vs. Dallas Mavericks
Saturday April 12, 2014 8:30pm NBATV

The Suns are fighting with the Mavericks, Grizzlies, Warriors and Trailblazers for a playoff spot. Since these teams will only face each other three times this year, this game is very important as the season series is tied. The winner of this game could very well be in the playoffs. The loser of this game could very well be starting their vacation earlier than expected. Dirk Nowitzki did proclaim this year the Mavericks are not a playoff team. However, they've done well, but Nowitzki could be right if they can't get some wins together in this final stretch.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers
Sunday April 13, 2014 1pm ABC

These two played in Oklahoma City in early December and the Thunder routed the Pacers when the Pacers were playing their best basketball. They're now playing their worst basketball of the season, and this could be a game that gets the Pacers back on track as the postseason nears. However, this could also be a game where the Pacers are blown out yet again, and a lot of eyebrows are being raised. The Pacers don't have much competition in the Eastern Conference playoffs, but that doesn't mean they can't get beat in a seven-game series. If the Pacers make it to the second round, they could be playing the Bulls or Raptors, two teams who are playing better than the Pacers right now. The Pacers have to figure out a way to straighten up.

Golden State Warriors vs. Portland Trailblazers
Sunday April 13, 2014 9pm

Stephen Curry scored 37 points and Klay Thompson added 27 points the last time the Warriors played in Portland. Thompson also hit the game-winner, so the Trailblazers should be looking for a little payback. However, payback is minuscule when considering what both teams are playing for. The Trailblazers have a narrow lead over the Warriors for the 5 seed, and the Trailblazers would like to keep that position. A 5 seed presents a matchup with the Rockets, which most teams would take with the Rockets struggling a little right now. Facing the Clippers, as a 6 seed, could be daunting as the Clippers are turning it up right now and playing very good basketball. If the Trailblazers play horribly, there's a slight chance they could be out of the playoff picture as well. I doubt it, but if that were to happen, that would be one of the biggest collapses in NBA history.

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Phoenix Suns
Monday April 14, 2014 10pm

This could be the game that decides which team makes the playoffs. The Grizzlies have played good basketball since Marc Gasol returned from injury. The Suns have played the past couple of months without Eric Bledsoe as well, so they're thrilled to have him healthy and ready to help push the Suns into the playoffs. The Grizzlies aren't good playing an uptempo style, so their defense will need to be at its very best to beat the Suns. The Grizzlies have the season series already in their favor, winning the first three matchups already. A win by the Suns won't change anything, so the Suns will need a better record at the end of the regular season to be ahead of the Grizzlies and be in the playoffs. This should be intense.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Memphis Grizzlies
Wednesday April 16, 2014 8pm

The final game of the regular season always has at least one game that determines seeding or who gets into the postseason. This game is it right here. The Grizzlies are fortunate to have this game at home, as the Mavericks have handled them pretty well this season. This game is currently not nationally televised, but that could change as the week progresses. ESPN would want to show a game that has playoff ramifications, and this game is one of the few that has true playoff ramifications. If this game is for the playoffs, expect Dirk Nowitzki to find the ball in his hands often and use his experience in lifting the Mavericks to a key road victory. Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph have good experience together, including reaching the Western Conference Finals last year. We'll see what gives.

Five Games To Watch This Week 3/31 - 4/6

In what could be an NBA Finals preview, former
Spurs PG George Hill will try to contain Tony Parker.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Indiana Pacers
Monday March 31, 2014 7pm NBATV

These two teams last played in early December, and the Pacers were making statements to the rest of the league at that time when they got off to their great start. That game was in San Antonio, and a double-digit victory impressed a number of people. These two teams now own the top seed in their respective conferences, so this could very well be an NBA Finals preview. The Spurs are rolling right now, winners of 17 straight. Their winning streak will be tested this week with games against the Warriors and Thunder as well. If the Spurs can extend their winning streak through the week's tough games, their statement will be heard loud and clear. The Pacers should view this game as a game to get a win over a championship contender, much like they did to the Heat this past week.

Toronto Raptors vs. Miami Heat
Monday March 31, 2014 7:30pm

The Raptors are nine games behind the Heat for second place in the Eastern Conference. However, the Raptors have the third best record in the conference, and this could be a preview of a second-round matchup in the postseason. A win here for the Heat will complete a four-game sweep, but the first two games were played in November, when the Raptors still had Rudy Gay. The Raptors have been a much different team since Gay's departure, and the Heat saw that when the Raptors played them tight in January. The Raptors need to keep winning, as they are just a game ahead of the Bulls in the standings. A win in Miami would also be huge for their confidence heading into the postseason.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Thursday April 3, 2014 8pm TNT

A win here for the Thunder would complete a season sweep, which is surprising. However, the Thunder seem to be a different team in the past month, and that could bode well for the Spurs heading into the postseason. The top two teams in the Western Conference are widely expected to see each other again in the Western Conference Finals, so we can get a lot from this game if both teams are playing all of their players. That's not a guarantee since the Spurs will be playing the Warriors the night before.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets
Friday April 4, 2014 9:30pm ESPN

The last time the Thunder played in Houston, the Rockets were scoring points with ease in the first half, racking up 73 points in the first half. The second half was a much different story, as the Rockets were historically bad. They managed to score just 19 points the entire second half in a double-digit loss. The last time these two teams played in general, Patrick Beverly was too busy reminding Russell Westbrook what he had done to him last season to tear his meniscus. Reports now have it that Beverly has a torn meniscus. Many will say it's karma, but that doesn't matter now. Beverly will seek multiple opinions. If Beverly will be shut down for the rest of the season, the Rockets are in trouble.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Phoenix Suns
Sunday April 6, 2014 9pm NBATV

The Thunder allowed Gerald Green to score 41 points the last time these two teams met in early March, roughly four weeks ago. If the playoffs were to start today, these two teams would see each other in the first round. It makes for an interesting Sunday game without any college basketball action for the first time in weeks. This is also a good Sunday game to watch considering ABC's doubleheader consists of disappointing teams who may get blown out. This is the must-watch game. This season is a great example of why the NBA and ABC should flex some of these Sunday doubleheader games out in favor of better ones like this game.

Five Games To Watch This Week 3/17 - 3/23

Pacers' C Roy Hibbert and Bulls' C Joakim Noah
will battle in what should be a defensive slugfest Friday night.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Chicago Bulls
Monday March 17, 2014 8pm ESPN

The Bulls have won 13 of their past 17 games as they look to climb the Eastern Conference standings and claim the 3 seed from the Toronto Raptors. Meanwhile, the Thunder are coming off of a bad home loss to the Mavericks, and they have struggled in general since Russell Westbrook returned to the lineup immediately following the All-Star break. However, Westbrook didn't play against the Mavericks, so he's expected to play in this game. The Thunder want to avoid playing him in back-to-back games so he won't have any problems with his knee going forward. However, the Thunder are struggling at the wrong time, and the Bulls are playing their best basketball. Joakim Noah is the catalyst and should be considered an MVP candidate.

Chicago Bulls vs. Indiana Pacers
Friday March 21, 2014 7pm

This is the first of two match ups between these two teams in a three-day span, and those two games will conclude the season series. The series is split at one currently, and the Pacers will be expected to win this game since they're at home. However, the Bulls have played better basketball lately, but they have no shot of catching the Pacers in the division. The Bulls will only look to make a statement with a win in Indianapolis, and there's a good chance they can do that. Both teams are allowing a season-best 92.2 points per game, so expect this game to be low-scoring.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Toronto Raptors
Friday March 21, 2014 7pm

The Raptors beat the Thunder in Oklahoma City in the teams' first meeting three days before Christmas, so the Thunder will look to return the favor in Canada. The Raptors have to keep winning to hold off the Brooklyn Nets for the Atlantic Division crown and a top 4 seed. They are currently a 3 seed and just a half game ahead of the Chicago Bulls, so they'll be looking to stay ahead of them as well. The Raptors are getting production from a lot of people, and Demar DeRozan is starting to look like a star the Raptors expected him to be when they drafted him with the ninth overall pick in the 2009 draft. This would be a good game for a good win for the Thunder. They have struggled since the All-Star break and have relinquished the 1 seed to the San Antonio Spurs.

Indiana Pacers vs. Memphis Grizzlies
Saturday March 22, 2014 8pm

The Grizzlies have played great basketball in the past couple of months, and it has resulted in the Grizzlies obtaining a playoff spot while the sputtering Phoenix Suns have fallen out. The Grizzlies are healthy and have seemed to find a lineup they like to work with, so the Suns are in a lot of trouble. These two teams were in the conference finals a year ago, and the Pacers seem like a lock to get back. The Grizzlies certainly aren't locks, and they would like to keep winning so they can continue climbing the standings to avoid the Thunder or Spurs. It may not be that bad to play the Thunder, however, the way they've been playing lately. Don't feel fooled by a little funk though.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Golden State Warriors
Saturday March 22, 2014 10:30pm NBATV

The Warriors are battling with the Mavericks, Grizzlies and Suns for the bottom three spots in the playoffs. The Spurs are rolling, winners of 10 straight and have obtained the 1 seed and the overall best record in the league. The Warriors will look to avoid them in the playoffs, so the only way to do so is to avoid the 7 or 8 seed. However, the Warriors can make a statement with a win against the Spurs as well. There's a good chance the Spurs will be resting players in this one. They play in Sacramento the night before, so that should help the Warriors. These two did play in Oakland when the Spurs were resting players, and they still beat the Warriors. The Spurs are a deep team.

Five Games To Watch This Week 3/10 - 3/16

Heat F Lebron James won't have the mask when the Rockets
and Heat battle in South Beach on Sunday.

Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Monday March 10, 2014 10:30pm NBATV

There's a possibility these two teams could see each other in the playoffs. If the playoffs started today, that wouldn't be the case, but there have been changes to the top and bottom of the Western Conference playoff standings so you never know. The season series is even so far through two games, with the road team being the victor in both. This game is in the Staples Center, so if it goes according to history, the Suns should be feeling good. Of course it isn't that easy, and both teams are battling for the Pacific Division title. The Clippers have a solid lead, but a losing streak coupled with a hot streak for the Suns could change things. Both teams would enjoy a win here.

Houston Rockets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Tuesday March 11, 2014 8pm NBATV

The last time these two teams played, the Rockets were red hot in the first half, taking a 73-59 halftime lead. In what would become a historical second half, the Thunder would outscore the Rockets by 26 points to win this game. The historical part of this performance was the total amount of points the Rockets scored in the second half. They scored a grand total of 19 points, which appeared to even shock Kevin Durant in the post game interview with Craig Sager. The Thunder haven't played well recently, especially since Russell Westbrook returned to the lineup the first game following the All-Star break. The Rockets could catch the Thunder at a bad time, as the Thunder have allowed 41 points to Gerald Green of the Suns and 42 points to Jodie Meeks of the Lakers in recent losses.

Portland Trailblazers vs. San Antonio Spurs
Wednesday March 12, 2014 9:30pm ESPN

When the Trailblazers beat the Spurs the first two times in November and January respectively, the Trailblazers were playing excellent ball and were sitting atop the Western Conference standings. These two played for a third time in the week following the All-Star break, and Patty Mills had a breakout performance in a game in which Tony Parker and Tim Duncan sat out. The Trailblazers are now fifth in the Western Conference standings, so they're definitely not playing as well as they were in the beginning of the season. Meanwhile, the Spurs are starting to play well against the contenders, and they are healthy for the first time in a long time. The Trailblazers would really like this win for a number of reasons, but winning the season series could be the most important reason.

Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Wednesday March 12, 2014 10:30pm

This is the final meeting between these two teams, and some of us would like to see them play each other in the playoffs as well. This matchup has been testy, with Blake Griffin being ejected in their Christmas Game matchup, and Doc Rivers and Mark Jackson having words about the tactics used in their matchups. Remember, Rivers and Jackson were traded for each other in the early 90s, when Rivers joined the Knicks and Jackson joined the Clippers. This doesn't necessarily mean those two have anything against each other. However, it's another interesting twist in connection between these two guys, and it can get better in the last regular season meeting here.

Houston Rockets vs. Miami Heat
Sunday March 16, 2014 3:30pm ABC

The Rockets led wire-to-wire in their victory against the defending champions last week, so the Heat will look to avenge the loss. ABC will only show one game, as there will be plenty of college basketball action on this day, including the Selection Sunday show. That show begins at 6, so this game will lead right into that. This is the perfect prelude to an exciting show, and these two teams have exciting offenses as well. Dwight Howard has 22 points and 16 rebounds in the first matchup on March 4th, and he figures to be a problem again because the Heat like to go small. If Howard isn't effective against the small lineup, the Rockets will not win at all.

Five Games To Watch This Week 3/3 - 3/9

Spurs' G Danny Green put on a show from behind the arc in last
season's NBA Finals. The Spurs and Heat see each other on Thursday.

Miami Heat vs. Houston Rockets
Tuesday March 4, 2014 8pm NBATV

These two teams will meet for the first time this season, and they will see each other in Miami twelve days later as well. This could be an NBA Finals preview, as the Rockets are one of several teams prime to contend for a championship in the Western Conference. This is the first of two consecutive games in the state of Texas for the defending champions. The Heat are playing well also, winning 10 of their last 11 games. This is usually the point in the season where they get things going en route to the NBA Finals, so the Pacers should be worried. In the offseason, Kevin Durant told a reporter he believed James Harden is now better than Dwyane Wade. This is Harden's first chance to prove Durant right.

Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs
Thursday March 6, 2014 8pm TNT

The Heat won the first rematch of last year's NBA Finals, so the Spurs may have revenge on their minds. The Spurs probably won't have revenge on their minds either. It's really hard to tell exactly how the Spurs will come out and play. However, they always make sure they're going into the postseason at their best. That wasn't the case last season, as they struggled in April to end the regular season. However, they proved exactly why they should never be counted out, as they came within 20 seconds, a made free throw or a rebound from winning another NBA championship. We'll see how the Spurs are feeling in this one.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Phoenix Suns
Thursday March 6, 2014 9pm

The second game of the TNT doubleheader will be between the Clippers and Lakers. If TNT had the power to switch games out, they would probably switch that game out and televise this one. The Suns have shocked the country with their play, but they still have some work to do to remain in the playoff race. At the bottom of the Western Conference playoff standings, the Suns are fighting with the Warriors, Grizzlies and Mavericks for the final three seeds. We'll see which three teams will hold up and what team will be on the outside looking in at the end of the season. I believe the Suns have gained fans with their surprisingly impressive play. It would be a heartbreaker if they didn't qualify for the postseason.

Indiana Pacers vs. Houston Rockets
Friday March 7, 2014 9:30pm ESPN

The Rockets owe it to their fans for a good game and victory in this one. The first time these two teams played in December, back in Indianapolis, the Pacers won by 33. The Rockets should remember it and try to send a message. These two teams could very well be seeing each other in the NBA Finals. Players from both teams hate to admit it, but these kind of games are statement games. The Rockets definitely want to make a statement. The opportunity awaits them.

Portland Trailblazers vs. Houston Rockets
Sunday March 9, 2014 7pm

The Rockets have already won two out of three against the Trailblazers, so they'll be looking to win the season series. The Trailblazers were the top seed in the Western Conference at one point, but they dipped to fifth at one point during midseason struggles. However, they're now third in the Western Conference, sitting 3 1/2 games behind the Thunder. The Rockets were hot at one point leading up to the All-Star break, owning the third seed at one point. However, the Rockets have dipped below the Trailblazers, so it really appears as if both teams could use a tiebreaker advantage. A victory for either team could be huge.

Five Games To Watch This Week 2/24 - 3/2

F Blake Griffin and the Clippers will look to continue their
winning ways against the Rockets.

Golden State Warriors vs. Chicago Bulls
Wednesday February 26, 2014 8pm

The Warriors have dipped a little in the standings, currently sitting as the 7 seed in the Western Conference. They have won seven of their past 10 games, so they hope they can continue to win games and improve their position. The Bulls have played well despite not having Derrick Rose as well, and that's a testament to Tom Thibodeau. This game is interesting because of the contrast of styles in play for both teams. The Warriors love to run up and down despite not having a deep team. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson love to shoot as soon as the ball ends up in their hands, so the Bulls will have their hands full. The Bulls are second in the league in points allowed, so we'll see what gives.

* Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Wednesday February 26, 2014 10:30pm ESPN

The Rockets were able to jump the Clippers and Trailblazers in the standings, so the Clippers will look to protect home court in this game and try to jump the Rockets in the standings as well. The Clippers have won the first two games of the season series with two more to play, so a win for the Clippers here will have great meaning. Both teams could very well end the season with identical records, so a tiebreaker would come into play. The Rockets have gotten hot, and thus have been able to climb the standings. However, those wins haven't necessarily come against great teams except for their win against the Spurs. The Rockets believe they are starting to find themselves and their strengths as a team, which could make them very dangerous in the postseason.

Washington Wizards vs. Toronto Raptors
Thursday February 27, 2014 7pm

This is the final game of the season series for these two teams, and the Wizards would love nothing more than to beat the Raptors. The Raptors have won the first three games, including winning two in Washington DC each by double digits. The Raptors are in front of the Atlantic Division, placing them as the 3 seed in the conference. The Wizards are currently the 5 seed, despite being at .500 with a 28-28 record. It's been that kind of season for the Eastern Conference. Depending on how things shape up this season, these two teams could see each other in the playoffs. John Wall received an All-Star berth this season, giving the Wizards their first All-Star in awhile. The Raptors got the same thing as well, as DeMar DeRozan was selected as an All-Star for the first time in his career. These two teams could be in playoff contention for years to come if all goes right.

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Friday February 28, 2014 8pm

The Grizzlies have gotten back into playoff contention, but they're still on the outside looking in. They are currently the 9 seed, so they're hoping the Warriors continue to be a little more inconsistent and fall out of the playoff race. If the Grizzlies can stay healthy, they can continue their surge and get in. They would like to get a quality win also, and this would be one. The Thunder are 0-2 since Russell Westbrook returned, and both of those losses have come at home. Naturally, the chatter about Westbrook's compatibility with Kevin Durant will return, but it was proven last year the Thunder need Westbrook in order to make a championship run. Westbrook is just returning from a long absence, so it'll take some time to get re-acquainted. The Thunder will be fine. However, the Grizzlies are the unknown.

Dallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs
Sunday March 2, 2014 7pm NBATV

Once upon a time, these two teams were big rivals in the Western Conference. Both teams had beaten each other in the playoffs, especially when it was least expected. However, the Mavericks are not the team they once were, but the Spurs continue to shock the casual fan by staying in championship contention. Tim Duncan will turn 38 years old in April, so many people are looking for the time where he no longer displays the double-double play. Duncan is keeping himself in great shape, and Gregg Popovich is keeping him healthy by resting him in certain games. The Spurs do not have a game the day before or the day after this one, so expect Duncan to play in this one. We'll see if Tony Parker's absence will have ended by this time. He's out indefinitely, so I believe he won't be ready in this one.

* GAME OF THE WEEK

Five Games To Watch This Week 2/17 - 2/23

Heat F Lebron James and Thunder F Kevin Durant will meet for
the second and final time in the regular season this Thursday night. 

San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Tuesday February 18, 2014 10:30pm NBATV

The Spurs have three tough games on the West Coast this week, and all of them are must-watches. If the Spurs have been playing the way they've been playing against the elite of the Western Conference so far, they could very well embark on a three-game losing streak. The Clippers easily handled the Spurs the first time the Spurs played them in the Staples Center. Tony Parker left that game early with an injury, but the Spurs will not use that as an excuse for the loss. The Clippers are only two games behind the Spurs in the Western Conference, so this is a game they want to win. This is also the final meeting between these teams, so the winner of this game owns the season tiebreaker if that should be an issue at the end of the regular season.

Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Wednesday February 19, 2014 10:30pm ESPN

The Lakers suck, as they're tied with the Kings for the worst record in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Rockets are rolling. After losing two straight to the Grizzlies, the Rockets have won seven straight games to jump ahead of the Clippers and Trailblazers for the three seed. This game isn't notable because it's a matchup between two good teams. It's a must-watch because Dwight Howard will make his return to the Staples Center to play the Lakers for the first time since departing the Lakers as a free agent. You can expect a lot of boos. With an underwhelming roster, Howard will have the last laugh.

Miami Heat vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Thursday February 20, 2014 8pm TNT

Kevin Durant is rightfully sick and tired of the comparisons about him and Lebron James. Both players will go at it for the final time in the regular season, and they may see each other again in the NBA Finals. It seems like Durant has locked up the MVP award, averaging 31.5 points a game while James is third averaging 26.5 points a game. The Thunder also handed the Heat an embarrassing home loss last month, and the Thunder may get Russell Westbrook back for this game. The Thunder can make a statement here with a resounding sweep of the Heat. Of course, a better statement would be an NBA title over the Heat.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Phoenix Suns
Friday February 21, 2014 9pm

The Spurs have beaten the Suns twice so far this season, but those wins didn't come easy. The Suns are shocking the country with their play, which has them in playoff contention. If the season were to end today, the Spurs would be playing the Suns in the first round. The Suns are a team that's young and full of energy, so the Spurs may have problems against them if they were to play each other in a playoffs series. If you remember the 2010 postseason, Goran Dragic had his coming-out party against the Spurs in the second round during his first stint with the Suns. The Suns surprisingly swept the Spurs in that series to advance to the Western Conference Finals. Could Tony Parker have problems with Dragic here?

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Sunday February 23, 2014 1pm ABC

We get back to our ABC doubleheaders with a great one, as the Clippers and Thunder don't seem to like each other at all. The first time these two teams played this season, Serge Ibaka and Matt Barnes were involved in a scuffle, and Barnes was ejected. Barnes would later engage in a Twitter rant during the game while in the locker room after being ejected. That rant cost him some money as well. Barnes isn't the only player to not like Ibaka, and Ibaka isn't the only player to not like Barnes either. Whenever Blake Griffin is involved, things can get testy. Griffin is strong and imposes his strength and force on opponents, drawing their ire at times. The Clippers would like to gain ground on the Thunder, but they're six back and the Thunder have been rolling. I'm not sure the Clippers catch that top spot.

Five Games To Watch This Week 2/10 - 2/16

Before he sets off on a busy All-Star weekend, Trailblazers'
G Damian Lillard will look to beat two of the top teams in the West.

Miami Heat vs. Phoenix Suns
Tuesday February 11, 2014 9pm

The Suns are in the middle of a tough stretch here, so a win against the defending champions is needed. It was around this time last season when the Heat went on their 27-game winning streak, so they can get hot at any moment and rip off wins rather easily. The Pacers hold a good lead atop the Eastern Conference standings, so the Heat needs this win just as much as the Suns. Of course, one win here won't do much in the big picture, but for the Suns, a win against this team is huge for their confidence considering they're a young basketball team making an unexpected playoff run. Both teams average just over 104 points a game, so offense will be seen here.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Portland Trailblazers
Tuesday February 11, 2014 10:30pm NBATV

This is the final regular season matchup between these Northwest Division teams, and the Trailblazers will love nothing more than to get a victory here. A victory here against the Thunder will mean the Trailblazers will have taken three out of four games against the Thunder. This tiebreaker could be important late in the season, so this game is very important for both teams. This is the week before All-Star weekend, and both teams will be represented with a couple of players, so it's important to stay focused and finish off the first half of the season strong.

Atlanta Hawks vs. Toronto Raptors
Wednesday February 12, 2014 7pm

Both teams are 10 games behind the second place Heat in the Eastern Conference, but they occupy the 3 and 4 seeds. This is only the second meeting between the two teams, with their final two matchups coming in late March. Those will probably be much more important than this matchup here, but they're both playing to stay in the top half of the Eastern Conference so they can get home-court advantage in the first round. They probably won't care where they are exactly as long as they end as a 3 or 4 seed. They know a date with the Pacers or Heat awaits them in the second round, and I wouldn't want to face either team.

Miami Heat vs. Golden State Warriors
Wednesday February 12, 2014 10:30pm NBATV

The Warriors beat the Heat in Miami for two consecutive seasons, so they're looking for the season sweep in Oakland. The Warriors have been an up-and-down team for the most part. A mediocre start to their season was followed by an impressive win streak of 10 games in late December into the New Year. However, the Warriors have gone 6-7 since the win streak ended, so they just can't get any consistent play. A win against the Heat would be clutch for them going into the All-Star break. The Heat's time on the west coast will end with this game, but they'll continue to play on the road after the All-Star break in the Midwest.

Portland Trailblazers vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Wednesday February 12, 2014 10:30pm

These two teams played a great game the day after Christmas, when the Trailblazers were able to prevail in overtime over the Clippers. This is the second of only three meetings between these two teams, and this is the only game the Trailblazers will play in the Staples Center against the Clippers. The Clippers will most likely have Chris Paul for this game, so they're happy to be close to full strength in this one. The Trailblazers continue on their mission to prove to the league they are legit. Their rise to the top of the league resembles the sudden rise to the top of the Western Conference by the New Orleans Hornets back in the 2007-2008 season. Paul was the leader of that team and a legitimate MVP candidate leading them to a 57-25 record and a 2 seed. They spent the majority of that season showing other teams and fans they were legit as well.

Five Games To Watch This Week 1/27 - 2/2

The two best players in the NBA square off in Miami on Wednesday.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Houston Rockets
Tuesday January 28, 2014 8pm NBATV

The Spurs have already lost twice to the Rockets, and both of those games came in San Antonio. The Spurs might have better luck playing in Houston. The Spurs have already lost seven games at home, but they have the road record in the NBA. That can probably help them in this game. The Rockets haven't been what they expected to be defensively, but that's because of the pace they play and the absence of Omer Asik.

Kevin McHale started the season by pairing Dwight Howard with Asik in the frontcourt. That duo presents a formidable frontcourt that poses problems for an opponent. However, on the offensive end, they're just not as potent. They're a better team with Terrence Jones playing the power forward position, as he spaces the floor well and allows the Rockets to average 105 points a game. Will this style of play be sustainable?

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Miami Heat
Wednesday January 29, 2014 7pm ESPN

This is a potential NBA Finals preview, as these two teams met in the 2012 NBA Finals. The Thunder were the top seed in last year's playoffs as well, but they lost Russell Westbrook to injury in the first round. They simply weren't the same, as they were bounced from the playoffs by the Memphis Grizzlies rather easily in the second round. If Westbrook can return from his latest injury and remain healthy through their postseason run, there's a great chance they'll be back in the Finals.

Many fans will enjoy another matchup between Durant and Lebron James, as they are the league's two best players. There is a great chance Durant can win MVP this year, as he's carried the Thunder while Westbrook has been out with another knee surgery. Durant can make a good MVP case if he lights up American Airlines Arena. He has been on a scoring tear as of late, so if he goes off on James, it'll be one of the most impressive statements of the season.

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors
Thursday January 30, 2014 10:30pm TNT

Everytime these two teams meet, someone has to get into a little scrum. Hopefully, both teams are able to keep the peace and play a clean game. The Clippers are four games ahead of the Warriors, so the Warriors will want this home win. Chris Paul also will not suit up, so Stephen Curry won't have a premier point guard to face. That could be a great thing, or it could be a bad thing. Curry is locked in at times, especially when he's facing a great opponent or a great individual matchup. He could lose a little bit of focus without Paul playing.

After being held to 91 points in a loss to the Bobcats, the Clippers have been scoring points in bunches. They've beaten the Bulls, Raptors, and Bucks in the past three games while averaging just over 117 points a game. Jamal Crawford has averaged 31 points a game in the past two, so he could be on a roll. Both teams will fight for this one. Let's see who comes out on top.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Brooklyn Nets
Friday January 31, 2014 8pm ESPN

The Nets are 10-2 since 2014 started, so they are greatly improving. Both of those losses came to the Raptors, so they'll look to solve that problem later. However, one of the Nets wins in 2014 came against the Thunder, and it was in Oklahoma City. Therefore, the Nets will look for a season-series sweep of the Thunder. The Nets also beat the Thunder in Oklahoma City last year, so they seem to have their number.

Kevin Durant is rolling right now, so he may drop 40 in this one. He has no other choice but to take on more scoring, as Russell Westbrook is still out for an extended period of time. Durant doesn't want to take all of these shots, but he will for the better of the team. The Thunder should know the Nets have played them well in the past two seasons. Look for the Thunder to make a statement in Brooklyn.

Miami Heat vs. New York Knicks
Saturday February 1, 2014 8:30pm ESPN

This is Super Bowl weekend in New York City, so you know Lebron James and Kevin Durant had to pay visits and bring a pre-Super Bowl show. The Heat lost to the Knicks in their first meeting, also at Madison Square Garden, so the Heat will be looking for revenge. This could be a time where the Heat get into one of their hot stretches. The Heat are very capable of going on a ridiculous winning streak just like they did last year.

The Heat will want one of those streaks, but the health of Dwyane Wade continues to be a concern. Wade's knees simply aren't holding up, so his effectiveness for the rest of his career could be in doubt. We'll see how that story develops, but James is very capable of carrying this team. The Knicks are struggling also, so I don't expect them to beat the Heat a second time. If the Knicks do win, this could be a confidence builder. The Knicks need them especially since they've played poorly at home.

Five Games To Watch This Week 1/20 - 1/26

It was Heat's G Ray Allen's three that tied the game
and saved the Heat's season. 

Indiana Pacers vs. Golden State Warriors
Monday January 20, 2014 10:30pm TNT

This is the first of two meetings between these two teams. If you remember last season, Warriors' F David Lee and Pacers' C Roy Hibbert got into a fight that resulted in Warriors' G Stephen Curry getting tossed to the side repeatedly by Hibbert. They're probably not going into this game thinking about that fight, but it'll be interesting to see Hibbert and Lee battle for rebounds. Since it is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, hopefully both teams can keep the peace. The Pacers are a defensive juggernaut, so handling the free spirited and free shooting Warriors can be a tough task. If Curry and F Klay Thompson are on fire, there's nothing Pacers' F Paul George and G Lance Stephenson can do.

Portland Trailblazers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Tuesday January 21, 2014 8pm

The Trailblazers are coming off a victory in San Antonio, which means they already have two wins apiece against the last two Western Conference champions. The Thunder should come out and look to blow the Trailblazers out. When you keep them around, they make things happen. Thunder's F Kevin Durant scored 54 points against the Warriors, so look for him to take over if he needs to do so. He previously stated he doesn't want to be taking a lot of shots and he needs help. However, if need be, he'll deliver.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs
Wednesday January 22, 2014 8pm ESPN

The Spurs' struggles against the top teams should be well-noted by now. Despite having the best record in the Western Conference, they are struggling against the top teams in the league. This is the last game against the Thunder at home this season. The Spurs would love to get a victory. The Spurs could very well be swept in their regular season matchup against the Thunder if they don't win at home in this one.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat
Sunday January 26, 2014 1pm ABC

This is a rematch of last year's NBA Finals, and it was a great series. No team has ever come as close as the Spurs came to winning a championship without winning one. This won't be revenge because the Spurs know it counts in June. They have four rings themselves so they know that better than any team. Still, both teams are still among the top teams in their respective conferences and in the league, so it's possible this could also become a Finals preview. This is a good game of an ABC doubleheader. Too bad the second game, which was supposed to be the headliner, sucks.

Portland Trailblazers vs. Golden State Warriors
Sunday January 26, 2014 9pm

The first time these two teams played in November, the Trailblazers got a huge road win in Oakland, but it didn't come without a little controversy. Six technicals and three ejections occurred in this game, as Warriors' C Andrew Bogut and Trailblazers' C Joel Freeland were involved in an altercation. Trailblazers' G Mo Williams and G Wesley Matthews were ejected, in addition to Warriors' F Draymond Green. Hopefully, this game isn't marred by another altercation. The Warriors were average in the first month of the season while the Trailblazers were surprising a lot of people. The Warriors are now in the 6th spot and looking to climb up the standings some more. This is a great game to cap off a week full of great games.

Five Games To Watch This Week 1/13 - 1/19

 

Trailblazers' F Nicolas Batum had a triple-double in the team's
first meeting against the Spurs.

5. Portland Trailblazers vs. Dallas Mavericks
Saturday January 18, 2014 8:30pm

These two teams played in early December in Portland, and the Mavericks handed the Trailblazers a rare home loss after Monta Ellis hit a game-winning jumper as time expired. Therefore, the Trailblazers will be looking for revenge in this one. LaMarcus Aldridge is from Dallas, so he'll most likely have a lot of friends and family on hand. Aldridge will be a free agent in the 2015 offseason, so going home to Dallas could be a potential landing spot for him.

That's thinking too far ahead though. The Trailblazers have surprisingly played well so far, but they have cooled off a little lately. This will be the second game of a Texas back-to-back tilt. The first game will be harder.

4. Los Angeles Clippers vs. Indiana Pacers
Saturday January 18, 2014 7pm NBATV

This will be the second and last meeting of the season between these two teams, unless they see each other again in the NBA Finals. The Pacers won the first meeting in Los Angeles, and the Clippers will be going into Indianapolis without Chris Paul. I don't see how the Clippers can come out winners of this game, but the Pacers go into offensive funks at times.

If the Clippers are able to break down the Pacers at times and force the Pacers into taking contested jump shots, the Clippers still have a chance to win. I don't know how they'll break down the Pacers' stout defense without Paul, so that'll mean Jared Dudley, J.J. Redick and Jamal Crawford will have to be hot from the outside to pull off the upset.

3. Golden State Warriors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Friday January 17, 2014 9:30pm ESPN

It wasn't that long ago when the Warriors were out of the playoff picture, struggling in mediocrity with the absence of Andre Iguodala. The Warriors are now winners of 11 of their past 12 games since losing to a Spurs team that rested most of its stars in December. The Warriors are now just five games back of the top seed in the Western Conference. Winning in Oklahoma City seems possible for them, especially since the Thunder will be without Russell Westbrook.

The Thunder are 5-4 since Westbrook was declared out for an indefinite amount of time after securing a triple double on a Christmas Day win at Madison Square Garden. The Thunder were the top seed in the Western Conference at the time. They are now the third seed, so they must be careful and try to stay in the top two or three until Westbrook returns. They are still championship contenders no matter where they end up at the end of the regular season. However, a 3 seed would mean not having home-court advantage against a 2 seed in the second round.

2. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets
Thursday January 16, 2014 9:30pm TNT

The Thunder destroyed the Rockets by 31 points in Oklahoma City a couple of days before New Year's. Naturally, the Rockets will be looking to avenge that loss. However, something must be said about James Harden's struggles against his former team. It seems the Thunder know him so well, and in these past two seasons, they have been able to restrict him a bit.

He still has had solid games against them last season, including a career-high 46 points against the Thunder. However, he was held in check in that earlier meeting this season. Harden should be feeling some kind of way about his struggles against Kevin Durant, so don't be surprised if he hangs another 40 at home against the depleted Thunder. This should be a good one.

1. Portland Trailblazers vs. San Antonio Spurs
Friday January 17, 2014 8:30pm

Many people have been waiting for the Trailblazers to show they're not for real, but their win against the Thunder in Oklahoma City on New Year's Eve showed to people they are for real. They have struggled a little lately, losing to the 76ers at home recently, but the Trailblazers are still playing well overall. If they can win in San Antonio, that would be huge for their confidence.

The Spurs have destroyed the teams they're supposed to beat, which is what every good team should do. However, the Spurs haven't necessarily shown they can beat the top teams in the league. They've already suffered losses to the Thunder and Rockets (twice apiece), Clippers, Pacers, and these Trailblazers. The Spurs usually don't get the ball rolling until after the All-Star break. However, they would like a win here, and I believe they'll get that win.

Five Games To Watch This Week 1/6 - 1/12

Heat's F Lebron James and Knicks' F Carmelo Anthony renew their
rivalry as the two meet for the first time this season.

5. Houston Rockets vs. Atlanta Hawks
Friday January 10, 2014 7:30pm

Dwight Howard is from Atlanta, so the Hawks felt they could attempt to entice him to come to his hometown team this offseason. Howard should expect to hear boos in this one, if Hawks fans even decide to show up to this game. For a team that has been a playoffs team for the past six years, they have a hard time bringing fans to the gym. From Howard's perspective, he might want to have a big game in front of potential friends and family.

4. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. San Antonio Spurs
Sunday January 12, 2014 7pm

The Timberwolves are currently two games behind the Mavericks for the eighth seed in the Western Conference, and it's only January. There's plenty of time for them to play well and capture a playoff berth. What makes this game exciting to watch is the fact that the Timberwolves are second in the NBA in scoring behind the Trailblazers. They are exciting to watch, and couple that with the Spurs' exciting brand of basketball as well, this is a must-watch.

3. Indiana Pacers vs. Atlanta Hawks 
Wednesday January 8, 2014 7:30pm

Many people forget the Pacers struggled with the Hawks in the first round of the playoffs last season, as the Hawks were able to handle the Pacers easily in Games 3 and 4 in Atlanta. The Hawks currently own the third seed, but they're only one game over .500. These two teams, and the Heat, are the only three teams in the entire conference with records better than .500. This may not be a game that determines seeding, as the Pacers are far from the Hawks. The Hawks will be without Al Horford for the rest of the year also. We wish we could've seen Horford against Roy Hibbert.

2. Toronto Raptors vs. Indiana Pacers 
Tuesday January 7, 2014 7pm

The Raptors have been hot as of late, particularly after losing five straight games in early December. They have won seven of their past 10 games to improve to .500. The Raptors even beat the Pacers in Toronto on New Year's Day. The Pacers may not exactly be looking for revenge, but they're just looking for a win to continue their torrid start to their season. The Raptors, on the other hand, want to make a statement. They would love to get a win in Indianapolis.

1. Miami Heat vs. New York Knicks 
Thursday January 9, 2014 8pm TNT

This game is the best game of the week, which means there is a lack of good games this week. Carmelo Anthony is going up against Lebron James in this one, and they have had great battles in their careers. The Knicks have been horrible at home, so this game has potential to be a disaster. It could also bring out spirited play in the Knicks, which could result in a close loss or a shocking win. No one expects the Knicks to win this one but anything is possible.