It’s not an amazing week of games, but there are some very nice match ups as we head into the All-Star weekend. The Rockets have a couple of games away, and the Clippers continue the road trip that has given them headaches thus far.
Below is an exciting match up for each day this coming week that you should check out:
Monday, February 9th – Clippers at Mavericks, 8:30pm ET on NBATV
The Clippers have not been having a good road trip. Following a blow-out loss in Cleveland where they received 5 technicals, they played Sunday in Oklahoma City and were blown out again. The Mavericks are coming off of a big win against the Trail Blazers where they came back from down 11 in the last two minutes to force overtime and went on to blow Portland out in the extra frame. The Clippers are now missing Blake Grifffin for 4-6 weeks, while the Mavs are missing Rajon Rondo – so neither team is full strength. The Tyson Chandler vs. DeAndre Jordan battle will be key to victory for either team.
Tuesday, February 10th – Rockets at Suns, 8:00pm ET on TNT
The Rockets have been an interesting team this season. Coming into the week in 3rd place in the Western Conference, they are primed for a deep run into the playoffs, but seem to still be battling health (Dwight Howard specifically) and still need Trevor Ariza to step into a prime role for the team. The Suns are in a fight for the 8th spot, and have thus far held court, staying a game and a half over New Orleans as we start the week. The Suns love to run, and the Rockets don’t mind – setting the stage for a track meet matchup.
Wednesday, February 11th – Rockets at Clippers, 10:30pm on ESPN
The Rockets road trip continues against the Clippers who will be coming off their road trip in Los Angeles. Both teams are likely to be fired up and both will be looking for a win as we head into the All Star break. James Harden is pushing for the MVP award this season, and there’s no better place to shine than the city of lights.
Other great games tonight include Wizards at Raptors (7:30pm ET on NBALP).
Thursday, February 12th – Cavaliers at Bulls, 8:00pm ET on TNT
The final game of the “first half” of the season gives us the Cavs, who are coming in hot having seemingly found their chemistry, against the Bulls, who have seemingly lost their chemistry and defensive cohesion. If we forget about the Hawks for a moment (and the Wizards and Raptors) this could be the Eastern Conference finals, and each team will be looking to make a point with a win on a night where they are the only show in town.
Friday, February 13th – BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge, 9:00pm ET on TNT
Check out the new format of USA vs. the World.
Saturday, February 14th – State Farm All-Star Saturday Night, 8:30pm ET on TNT
Probably the best three-point shootout ever, and a return to the original format of the slam dunk contest.
Sunday, February 15th – NBA All-Star Game, 8:30pm ET on TNT
The grandaddy of them all in terms of talent on the court – both in players and musicians. An event not to be missed.