As the NBA offseason winds down, fans can start getting excited about the upcoming 2024-2025 season, with the full schedule now released for all 30 teams. The NBA is set to return in October, and until then, the WNBA is keeping basketball enthusiasts entertained. With the schedule in hand, here are some key dates, interesting trends, and notable matchups that are already catching attention.
 


Key Dates to Remember:

The NBA season kicks off on October 22, 2024, with two highly anticipated games: the Boston Celtics hosting the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Lakers welcoming the Minnesota Timberwolves. The season will officially get underway after teams conduct their media days on September 30, followed by the start of training camps on October 1. However, the Nuggets and Celtics will begin their preseason a week earlier, with both teams playing in Abu Dhabi on October 4 and 6.
 
Key dates later in the season include:

NBA Cup championship game on December 17
Trade deadline on February 6
NBA All-Star Weekend beginning on February 14 in Indianapolis.
The postseason play-in tournament will start on April 15, leading into the NBA Playoffs, which begin on April 19. The NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 2025, and the NBA Finals will tip off on June 5.
 
Fun Facts, Trends, and Oddities from the Schedule
 
Easiest Schedule: Denver Nuggets



The Denver Nuggets have been handed what is considered the easiest schedule in the league. While preseason strength of schedule metrics can be tricky, it’s clear that Denver's unique home-court advantage at 5,280 feet above sea level and their central location contributes to a more manageable travel itinerary. Even though the Western Conference is tough, the Nuggets’ schedule should help them navigate the season as they look to defend their title.
 
Most National TV Games: Los Angeles Lakers



Despite not being the top team in the league, the Los Angeles Lakers are set to be the most televised, with 39 national broadcasts across ESPN/ABC, TNT, and NBA TV. This high visibility is driven by the presence of LeBron James, who will be playing his age-40 season, potentially alongside his son, Bronny James. While the Lakers’ performance is always under scrutiny, their health, particularly that of James and Anthony Davis, will be crucial to making these games must-see TV rather than duds.
 
Toughest Schedule: Phoenix Suns

The Phoenix Suns are entering the season with high expectations, building around stars Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker. However, their path won’t be easy, as they face the fourth most challenging schedule in the league. Phoenix has a significant disadvantage in terms of rest, with four fewer games played with a rest advantage compared to a rest disadvantage. The Suns also have 16 back-to-back games, the most in the NBA, tying with 10 other teams. With championship hopes riding on this season, the Suns will need to navigate these challenges carefully.
 
Fewest National TV Games: Raptors, Trail Blazers, Pistons

On the other end of the spectrum, the Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers, and Detroit Pistons will each have just four national TV appearances. This makes sense for the Pistons and Blazers, who are coming off rough seasons with 14 and 21 wins respectively. However, the Raptors, who are still in the mix for an Eastern Conference play-in spot, might have expected a bit more coverage.
 
Three Must-Watch ‘Revenge Games’
 
1. Dallas Mavericks at Golden State Warriors – November 12, 10 p.m. ET, TNT:
   
Klay Thompson’s first game back in the Bay Area promises to be an emotional affair. Expect a tribute video and a warm reception from the fans for the Warriors’ sharpshooter, who is just as likely to light it up from beyond the arc as he is to struggle in a big moment.
 
2. Philadelphia 76ers at Los Angeles Clippers – November 6, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN:

Paul George's move to Philadelphia adds extra spice to this matchup. The Clippers will likely have mixed feelings seeing PG13 on the opposing side after contract negotiations fell through.
 
3. Brooklyn Nets at New York Knicks – November 15, 7:30 p.m. ET:

Mikal Bridges’ trade to the Knicks completes their Villanova reunion, setting the stage for what could be a lopsided affair if the Knicks, who have their sights set on the Eastern Conference crown, dominate a Nets team focused on rebuilding.