When does the NBA season start? Nuggets vs. Thunder added to blockbuster schedule for 2024-25 opener

The Paris Olympics are behind us and fans are wondering where they will get their next dose of basketball. Don't worry! The NBA has prepared. Now that most of the rosters are set, ((Warriors and Lakers fans laugh sarcastically)After a summer of signings and transfers, they are now all ready to begin the 2024-25 season. And indeed, the league has already planned some exciting fixtures for the opening night.

According to the schedule, the next season will begin on October 22nd. And to give the fans what they want, insider Shams Charania reported that the OKC Thunder will come to Denver Ball Arena that same night to face the Nuggets. As a reminder, last season they were the top two seeds in the West. And their record was no different, as both finished the season with 57 wins.

In addition, everyone has been eagerly waiting to see Nikola Jokic face Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in a head-to-head duel since the Serbian won his third MVP title against the Thunder talisman. Although SGA had an outstanding season, averaging over 30 points, he could not get more votes than the Joker, who almost achieved a triple-double, averaging 26.4 points, over 12 rebounds and 9 assists.

Furthermore, many fans, including Shaquille O'Neal, believed that Shai was robbed, and the Lakers legend even said it to Jokic's face when he was named the winner on Inside the NBA. “I want you to hear it from me first. I thought SGA should have been the MVP. That's no disrespect to you.” Both sides certainly have something to prove and that could make for an exciting clash on opening night.

Knicks-Celtics open NBA season; when is Bronny's debut?

While the Nuggets-Thunder matchup will surely get fans excited for next season, it won't be the first game of the night. Of course, that honor goes to the reigning champions, the Boston Celtics. And the event kicks off with a ring ceremony, followed by a game against the New York Knicks. With Mikal Bridges joining his Villanova boys in New York, this matchup is the perfect opportunity for the Knicks to announce their arrival.

Meanwhile, on the West Coast, the Lakers will host Anthony Edwards and Co. at the Crypto.com Arena. This game undoubtedly has the potential to make history, as Bronny James will have the chance to make his debut with LeBron as the first active father-son duo in league history.

Which game are you most looking forward to?

Before you go, don't forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger