From Raptors to Rockets: The 5 NBA 2017-18 games you can’t miss

Excitement builds following full fixture release

It’s official. The NBA 2017-18 fixtures have been released in full, and there’s less than two months to wait until the first tip-off.

Last season ended in thrilling fashion, with Golden State Warriors defeating Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1 in the Finals. That marked the third successive year these three had met in the season finale – but can anyone break the trend in 2018?

That remains to be seen. But the Coral News team think these five fixtures could provide plenty of excitement in the new season.

Los Angeles Lakers v Los Angeles Clippers (19 October 2017)

There was no contest when it came to finding the standout fixture of the opening weekend.

Doc Rivers’ Clippers were helped on their way to the playoffs by a trio of victories over their L.A rivals last season, with the Steve Ballmer-owned team chalking up a minimum of 113 points on all of those occasions.

As for the Lakers, they’re gradually on the mend, with last season’s 26-56 record their best in three years. So, can the Lakers kick off a season of revival by toppling their city rivals, or will Blake Griffin and co. dominate this fixture again?

Cleveland Cavaliers v Indiana Pacers (1 November 2017)

The Cavs destroyed their Central Division opponents last season, with a 4-0 playoff whitewash preceded by a trio of regular season wins for the Ohio franchise. However, Cleveland now have to adjust to life without Kyrie Irving, who averaged 25.8 points per game during his final year with the team.

With the Pacers having added a couple of hotshots who impressed in College Basketball, including UCLA grad T.J. Leaf, the power of balance could be shifting. An Indiana win on enemy territory would certainly strengthen that argument…