As a lifelong NBA analyst with over 15 years of experience covering the league, I can confidently say that this season has delivered some of the most electrifying basketball I’ve ever witnessed. The intensity, the rivalries, the buzzer-beaters—it’s all here, and I’ve handpicked ten must-watch matchups that promise to keep you glued to your screen. Let’s dive right in, because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every second counts in the NBA. Just look at what happened in that unforgettable collegiate game last month: 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 remind us why we love this sport—the sheer unpredictability, the razor-thin margins between glory and heartbreak. And trust me, the NBA this season is packed with games that could easily swing on a single play like that.

First up, you can’t miss the Lakers versus Celtics showdown on December 25th. It’s a classic rivalry reborn, with LeBron James and Jayson Tatum leading their squads in what I predict will be a high-scoring thriller. Last year’s match saw the Celtics edge out a 112-110 win, but this time, I’m betting on the Lakers to pull off a comeback, especially with Anthony Davis averaging 28.3 points per game. Why? Because in tight games, experience trumps youth, and LeBron’s clutch gene is something I’ve seen time and again. Then there’s the Warriors facing the Suns on January 5th—Steph Curry versus Kevin Durant, a duel that never gets old. I remember covering their 2017 Finals; the tension was palpable, and this regular-season game could easily mirror that intensity. With both teams shooting over 38% from three-point range this season, expect a shootout that’ll have you on the edge of your seat.

Moving on, the Bucks and 76ers clash on February 10th is another gem. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid going head-to-head is like watching two titans collide, and I’ve always been partial to Giannis’s raw power—it’s just mesmerizing. Stat-wise, Embiid’s 34.7 points per game lead the league, but Giannis’s defensive prowess, with 1.4 blocks per game, could turn the tide. I recall a similar matchup last season where a last-second block decided the game, much like that Abadiano miss—it shows how one slip can define an entire contest. And let’s not overlook the Nuggets versus Mavericks on March 15th. Nikola Jokic and Luka Dončić are masters of the game, and as someone who’s analyzed their playstyles for years, I’d say Jokic’s court vision is unmatched. But Luka? He’s a magician with the ball, and in a close game, his ability to create something from nothing could steal the show.

Now, for a sleeper pick, the Grizzlies against the Kings on April 2nd might not get the headlines, but it’s a personal favorite. Ja Morant’s explosive drives and De’Aaron Fox’s speed make for a fast-paced spectacle that I find utterly addictive. In their last meeting, the Kings won by just 3 points, and I suspect this one will be even tighter. Speaking of tight games, the Heat versus Knicks on January 20th is all about defense—Jimmy Butler’s grit versus Jalen Brunson’s finesse. I’ve always admired Butler’s never-say-die attitude; it’s what makes playoff-like games in the regular season so compelling. Statistically, the Heat hold opponents to under 105 points per game, but the Knicks’ rebounding, averaging 45.2 per game, could be the difference-maker.

Another must-see is the Cavaliers versus Nets on February 28th. Donovan Mitchell’s scoring bursts are a thing of beauty, and as a fan, I love how he elevates in big moments. The Nets, though, with their deep roster, could exploit the Cavs’ occasional defensive lapses—remember, in the NBA, a single turnover can unravel everything, much like Lopez’s bobble in that college game. Then there’s the Thunder versus Spurs on March 5th, a youth-filled duel featuring Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama. I’ve followed Wembanyama since his overseas days, and his 7-foot-4 frame with guard skills is revolutionary. This game might not have the star power of others, but it’s a glimpse into the league’s future, and I’m all in on that.

Wrapping up the list, the Clippers versus Suns on April 10th promises fireworks with Kawhi Leonard and Devin Booker leading the charge. I’ve always been critical of the Clippers’ playoff woes, but this regular-season bout could be a statement game. Lastly, the Celtics versus Warriors on March 20th is a Finals rematch I’m eagerly anticipating—the pace, the strategy, it’s basketball at its finest. In conclusion, this NBA season is a treasure trove of edge-of-your-seat moments, and as someone who’s lived and breathed this sport, I urge you not to miss these ten games. They’re not just contests; they’re stories in the making, where a single play, like Abadiano’s missed jumper, can become legend. So grab your popcorn, because in the NBA, anything can happen—and usually does.