The 2014-15 NBA schedule has been released. You are officially allowed to let excitement and anticipation consume you as we count down to opening night.
The itinerary is laid out for the Rockets’ championship pursuit. With a full chemistry-building season behind them, the superstar duo of Harden and Howard are poised to build on last year’s 54-win campaign. The West will be no easier than last year, but with lockdown defenders like Beverley and Ariza, improving forwards like Jones and Motiejunas and sharpshooting playoff hero Troy Daniels, hopes are high in H-Town.
We’ve carefully selected the top 10 must-see matchups for the upcoming season at Toyota Center. Guarantee your spot for these and every Rockets home game by securing a season ticket package.
Saturday, November 1 vs. Boston Celtics
There really is nothing else like opening night at Toyota Center. The energy in the building is inspiring and everything is brand new, from the debut of the season’s intro video to the introduction of the new apparel line in the team shop. And then there’s Trevor Ariza, Joey Dorsey and Ish Smith making their official returns to Houston.
Thursday, November 6 vs. San Antonio Spurs
Last season, the Rockets fared better against the defending champs than most, sweeping the season series for the first time since the 1988-89 season. However, an early playoff dismissal at the hands of Portland robbed us of the chance to see if that streak would continue into the postseason. Duncan, Parker and Ginobli are showing no signs of slowing and until further notice, the West still runs through San Antonio.
Wednesday, November 19 vs. Los Angeles Lakers
After a season of reunion-themed matchups with the Lakers, this season’s L.A. games will follow the same basic pattern, only with Jeremy Lin replacing Dwight Howard and Houston being on the other end of the equation. Although this will be Houston and L.A.’s second game since the season opener is at Staples Center, this game will mark Lin’s return to Toyota Center. The Lakers also have a guy named Kobe we haven’t seen in a while…
Saturday, November 22 vs. Dallas Mavericks
Admit it. You want to see what kind of reception the home crowd gives Chandler Parsons. He was a fan-favorite and gave Houston three seasons of great memories, but for this game he’ll be wearing Mavericks’ blue. All bets are off once you put on Mavericks’ blue.
Friday, November 28 vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Clutch City vs. Lob City. Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan and the Clippers have built a reputation on their high-flying offense. However, in only one season the Harden/Howard combo has pulled off some pretty devastating alley-oops. Come to this game, grab some popcorn and just sit back and enjoy the show.
Monday, December 22 vs. Portland Trailblazers
0.9 seconds. Nothing brings holiday cheer more than sweet, sweet revenge.
Saturday, January 3 vs. Miami Heat
The Heat may be missing a certain superstar in a headband, but the reigning Eastern champs will still bring plenty of talent to our side of the Gulf. Chris Bosh has his chance to shine as the number one option in South Beach and Dwyane Wade still has gas left in the tank.
Thursday, January 15 vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Wednesday, February 4 vs. Chicago Bulls
Derrick Rose is back to remind NBA fans everywhere what a dominating force he can be, especially with the newly-added Paul Gasol and reigning defensive player of the year Joakim Noah at his side. If the Bulls can stay healthy, they will be dangerous.
Sunday, March 1 vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
King James has returned home to Cleveland and he leads the Cavs into Toyota Center for their lone 2014-15 appearance in Houston. There’s really no need for additional hype.
The only way you can guarantee your spot at these must-see matchups by securing a Rockets season ticket package.