Many of the Wizards’ notable home games are reunions with former players and coaches.
The Washington Wizards’ schedule was released several weeks ago. While we are in the NBA season’s lull before training camp, here’s a look at ten of the most anticipated home games below:
Oct. 22 vs. Indiana Pacers — The Pacers were the team Washington eliminated in the play-in round last season, so there will certainly be intrigue around that alone. In addition, Domantas Sabonis is one of the league’s top big men and should be taking another step forward this season.
Nov. 7 vs. Milwaukee Bucks — The defending champions are in town and this will be a chance for Washington to show how they stack up against Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday.
Dec. 26 vs. Philadelphia 76ers — This is the first meeting Washington will have against the team that eliminated them in the playoffs last season. While Joel Embiid will certainly be a force against Washington’s posts, will Ben Simmons still be there after all the trade talk surrounding him?
Jan. 5 vs. Houston Rockets — John Wall has already played at Capital One Arena with his new team last February, but fans weren’t allowed in the arena then. This time, there could very well be a packed crowd so fans can say “thank you” in person.
Jan. 15 vs. Portland Trail Blazers — Beal will be in a scoring battle against Damian Lillard. It’s also the return of former head coach Scott Brooks, who is Portland’s lead assistant.
Jan. 19 vs. Brooklyn Nets — We get to see Kevin Durant. And it’s also the first time Spencer Dinwiddie plays his former team in Washington after two matches in Brooklyn on Oct. 25 and Dec. 21
Mar. 16 vs. Denver Nuggets — This is the chance for Washington to see how they stack up against Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA MVP. Head Coach Wes Unseld, Jr. also hosts his former team.
Mar. 19 vs. Los Angeles Lakers — Any game with LeBron James will compel me to add this game to the list. But Russell Westbrook will return to Capital One Arena and is sure to get more love from the crowd.
Mar. 27 vs. Golden State Warriors — Beal will be in another scoring battle, but this time against Stephen Curry, who won the title last season.
April 1 vs. Dallas Mavericks — Former assistant coach Kristi Toliver will return to Washington where you’ll see her work with Jason Kidd. On the player front, Beal and Luka Doncic will put on a great show.