With the All-Star Game looming, the NBA still has a nice first three days of non-national games including some fun conference matchups. 

Monday

Spurs @ Pacers- Despite all their injuries, the Pacers still have a realistic shot at a playoff spot in the disastrous bottom of the East. The Spurs are starting to move up the West ladder but need to win games like this to get a desirable seed.

Jazz @ Pelicans- Assuming Anthony Davis can play here, this game features two fun young teams still a few years from their peak. Rudy Gobert has the length to cause problems for the Brow and I hope we see some of them matched up. 

Tuesday

Pistons @ Hornets- The potential seven and eight seeds (in either order) go at it in a strangely informative game. Both teams are missing their starting Point Guards, which puts more pressure on their big men to make an impact.

Kings @ Bulls- Boogie vs. Noah. Even if Joakim is not at a full strength, that duel makes this compelling.

Nets @ Grizzlies- Lionel Hollins’ return to Memphis could be interesting considering all that has transpired since that strange coaching change. Memphis should win the game handily but the personal dynamics make this one worth watching.

Wednesday

Spurs @ Pistons- I am just excited to see how this plays out. Detroit has lost the molten fire they were playing with after they cut Josh Smith loose but still have the potential to make life incredibly difficult for the Champs. Plus, Andre Drummond and Tim Duncan potentially facing off for extended periods.

Wizards @ Raptors- It feels like these teams play weekly at this point but each game still matters considering the playoff implications. Who knows, this game could decide which franchise has home court in the second round of the playoffs. Also, Kyle Lowry vs. John Wall.

Warriors @ Timberwolves- People forget about it now but Ricky Rubio and Stephen Curry could have and possibly should have been teammates. Instead they face each other here as the revitalized Timberwolves host the best in the West.

Kings @ Bucks- Even without Larry Sanders, Milwaukee has been able to rely on solid frontcourt play to help key their surprising playoff run. That size will face a major test in All-Star DeMarcus Cousins. I am also pumped to potentially watch Giannis Antetokounmpo defend Rudy Gay for a full game.

Grizzlies @ Thunder (Game of the Week)- After playing an underappreciated gem of a playoff series, these teams have had dramatically different seasons due to injuries. Mike Conley and Russell Westbrook always battle but I am most intrigued by the potential of Jeff Green defending former teammate Kevin Durant.

Jazz @ Mavericks- Two teams I enjoy watching even though neither has been playing their best basketball as of late. Dirk Nowitzki is always a tough cover but Utah should be able to put Derrick Favors on him for some stretches.