It's always exciting when NBA schedules drop, and the 2024 season for the Lakers is no exception. For anyone eager to see specific matchups, the game against the Golden State Warriors on December 25th is a spectacle you won't want to miss. Think of it's like a festive gift from the basketball gods. Steph Curry versus LeBron James is a clash of titans, and seeing these future Hall of Famers go head-to-head is worth every penny.
The Lakers' back-to-back games against the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets in early March also promise to be intense. The Suns, led by Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, are one of the fastest-paced teams in the league, averaging over 110 possessions per game. On the other hand, the Nuggets, with Nikola Jokić, have the most efficient offense, boasting an offensive rating north of 115. These games will test the Lakers' defensive mettle and could serve as a playoff preview.
March doesn't slow down for the Lakers, who will also go toe-to-toe with the Milwaukee Bucks on the 15th. Giannis Antetokounmpo's freakish athleticism and versatility have made this team one of the toughest outs in the league. The Bucks consistently rank in the top five for defensive efficiency, meaning the Lakers' offense will need to be firing on all cylinders, especially as Chicago and San Antonio await them later in the month.
One date to circle on your calendar is January 31st, when the Boston Celtics come to town. This age-old rivalry offers some of the most memorable moments in basketball history. The Celtics love their perimeter game, having shot over 35% from beyond the arc last season, and their defensive prowess is nothing to scoff at, either. The Lakers will need to bring both energy and strategy to win this one.
LeBron James continues to defy Father Time, entering the season at the age of 39. His durability and explosive performances remain jaw-dropping. To put it into perspective, he averaged nearly 30 points per game last season and has maintained a career average of over 25 points per game across 20 seasons. You always wonder, is this the year he starts to slow down? The numbers strongly suggest otherwise.
The Lakers' front office made some interesting moves in the offseason, bringing in key role players to deepen their roster. One notable signing is Austin Reaves, who shot nearly 40% from the three-point line last season. His ability to stretch the floor will be crucial, especially in games against teams with stingy defenses like the Miami Heat, whom the Lakers face on February 11th. The Heat are another team to watch out for, given their top-ranked defense last year.
Games against the Los Angeles Clippers are always thrilling due to the city rivalry. Think of the match on November 2nd. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George present a formidable duo, making the Clippers one of the top defensive teams, limiting opponents to about 106 points per game. For the Lakers, these games are more than just another win or loss on the record; they're about securing bragging rights in LA.
As for the matchup against the Brooklyn Nets on January 20th, keep your eyes on the duel between LeBron and Kevin Durant. It’s like watching a chess match where every move is deliberate and impactful. KD averaged 29 points per game last season, and his scoring versatility makes him a constant threat. This game has all the ingredients for a high-scoring affair.
The Lakers will also go against younger, burgeoning teams like the Memphis Grizzlies. You could compare Ja Morant's explosiveness to a younger version of Russell Westbrook. The Grizzlies' up-tempo style and physical defense make them a tough matchup. They had a defensive rating under 110 last season, and Morant himself can put up 25 points on any given night.
All eyes will be on the playoffs, but don’t overlook some of the other intriguing matchups. The Dallas Mavericks bead for a February 25th showdown. Luka Dončić is a generational talent, recording multiple triple-doubles. His court vision and ability to control the game's tempo will certainly challenge the Lakers. Plus, Kyrie Irving always brings added drama and skill to the floor.
If you're a basketball purist, games against teams like the Spurs, who are in rebuilding mode but have promising rookies, will show the contrast between seasoned veterans and fresh talent. Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs' number one overall pick, is expected to play. At 7'4", he's a towering presence, literally and metaphorically. His match-up against Anthony Davis will be an entertaining spectacle.
You can't ignore the back-to-back feature against the Sacramento Kings in November. De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis have turned this team into serious competitors, making these games pressure-packed for the Lakers. These matchups will demand defensive discipline as both Fox and Sabonis are efficient scorers.
Due to the rising popularity of these games, ticket prices are expected to surge. According to a recent report from Ticketmaster, marquee games could see prices inflate by as much as 50%. Considering the average ticket price for a Lakers game last season was around $150, fans might have to shell out more, especially for those high-stake games.
So, as we inch towards the basketball season, excitement builds up. The unpredictable nature of sports guarantees that you never know what gem of a game you might witness. And scheduling quirks mean some matchups will carry extra weight for postseason implications. For all the must-see games and dates, check out the full nba schedule lakers and prepare for a thrilling season of Lakers basketball.