New Orleans Pelicans @ Memphis Grizzlies: 11/25 on NBATV
This game is exciting because it has a chance to be one of, if not the first game back, for Jaren Jackson Jr. after undergoing foot surgery this offseason.
Jackson’s timeline was around 4-6 months, so this November 25th date hits close to that five-month mark. That should give him good enough time to heal, get back to game shape and be ready to make an impact going into the holiday season.
Alongside Jackson’s potential return, it will be a chance for Ja Morant and Zion Williamson to square up again after being AAU teammates in their youth. This game could turn into a dunk contest by halftime.
Memphis Grizzlies @ Golden State Warriors: 12/25 on ABC/ESPN
This can be the game of the year in the entire NBA. What will be a rematch of the epic playoff series a year ago where the trash talk among all players cemented the rivalry between the Grizzlies and Warriors.
Ja Morant and Draymond Green have been going back and forth on social media, hyping up this rivalry. Ja Morant seemed happy that this game was on, tweeting, “We got we wanted Dray.”
Not much hyping up will be required for this matchup; look for this to be a high-scoring affair with the stars. The Grizz will specifically target Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Hopefully, by this point in the season, everyone is healthy and can make this Christmas Day matchup precisely what we all hope it will be.