As a lifelong basketball analyst with over 15 years of experience covering the league, I’ve learned that every NBA season tells a story—one punctuated by unforgettable moments, heart-stopping plays, and games that define careers. This year is no exception. With that in mind, I’ve curated my personal list of the top 10 must-watch NBA matches this season, games that promise not just elite competition but narratives you’ll remember for years. Let’s dive right in.
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking—aren’t these lists usually just packed with superstar showdowns? Sure, LeBron versus Durant or Curry facing off against Luka will always draw eyeballs, but I’m looking deeper. I want games where the stakes are clear, the tension is palpable, and one single possession could swing everything. It’s that razor-thin margin between glory and heartbreak that truly captivates me. I’ll never forget watching a college game years ago where Francis Lopez bobbled the ball at halfcourt, and then Gerry Abadiano front-rimmed what could have been the championship-clinching jumper at the buzzer. Moments like that—the ones that hang in the air forever—are why I love this sport. They remind us that under pressure, anything can happen, and this season’s schedule is full of matchups poised to deliver exactly that kind of drama.
Take, for instance, the opening night clash between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors. It’s a rematch layered with history, and personally, I’ve got this marked in my calendar as an early tone-setter. The Celtics, with their revamped roster aiming for around 55 wins this season, will test the Warriors’ chemistry right out of the gate. Stephen Curry, who I believe is still the most electrifying shooter in the game, against Jayson Tatum’s two-way brilliance—it’s a chess match I can’t wait to dissect. Then there’s the Christmas Day game between the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks. Having covered both teams extensively, I’m biased toward offensive fireworks, and this one should deliver. Luka Dončić and Devin Booker have a budding rivalry that’s pure theater; add in the holiday spotlight, and we’re looking at a potential 120-118 type of thriller that could come down to a final shot.
Another matchup that stands out to me, partly because of the defensive intrigue, is the Milwaukee Bucks visiting the Denver Nuggets in late January. Giannis versus Jokic is a stylistic dream—power and finesse colliding. I’ve spoken with scouts who estimate that the Nuggets’ half-court efficiency hovers near 1.12 points per possession when Jokic is on the floor, a staggering number that the Bucks’ defense, anchored by Brook Lopez, will aim to disrupt. Playoff seeding could be on the line here, and I wouldn’t be surprised if this game features multiple lead changes in the final minutes. Similarly, the Los Angeles Lakers facing the Memphis Grizzlies in March has all the makings of a grudge match. Having watched these teams battle in recent playoffs, I expect physicality, trash talk, and maybe even a technical foul or two. It’s the kind of game where role players often become heroes, and I’m keeping a close eye on how Austin Reaves handles the pressure in a hostile environment.
Let’s not overlook the younger teams, either. The Oklahoma City Thunder against the Orlando Magic in February might not have the mainstream appeal, but for true students of the game, it’s a showcase of future superstars. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s crafty drives versus Paolo Banchero’s versatile scoring—I see this as a potential 105-103 slugfest that highlights the league’s bright future. And speaking of rising stars, the San Antonio Spurs taking on the Houston Rockets in April could have draft implications, though I’ll admit I’m more interested in how Victor Wembanyama adapts against Jabari Smith Jr.’s defense. From my perspective, Wembanyama’s rim protection alone might swing this game by 5-6 points, a margin that often decides these tightly contested affairs.
Of course, rivalry games always deliver extra intensity. The Philadelphia 76ers versus the Miami Heat in early December is one I’ve circled because of the Joel Embiid–Bam Adebayo duel. Having analyzed their previous matchups, I’d give a slight edge to Embiid in scoring, but Adebayo’s mobility could force turnovers—maybe 3-4 key ones that shift momentum. Then there’s the New York Knicks hosting the Brooklyn Nets; as someone who’s covered the New York basketball scene for years, I can tell you the atmosphere at Madison Square Garden for this one will be electric. It’s more than a game—it’s a battle for city pride, and I expect Jalen Brunson to put on a show, possibly dropping 30-plus points if the Nets’ perimeter defense lapses.
Wrapping up my list, I’ve got to mention the Golden State Warriors visiting the Sacramento Kings in late March. This Pacific Division showdown has developed into must-see TV after their epic playoff series, and I’m predicting a fast-paced affair with over 230 total points. De’Aaron Fox’s speed against Curry’s shooting—it’s a contrast that keeps me on the edge of my seat. And finally, the season finale between the Celtics and the Bucks could very well decide the top seed in the East. Based on current projections, I’d estimate both teams finishing with around 58-60 wins, making this a potential preview of the Conference Finals. In games like these, every possession counts, much like that heartbreaker where Abadiano’s jumper rimmed out. It’s a reminder that in the NBA, greatness is often measured by moments—and this season is packed with opportunities for new ones to unfold. So grab your calendar, set those reminders, and get ready for a thrilling ride.
