With the All-Star break behind us, we hit the stretch run with fewer games remaining. That setup means ramped up pressure quickly and a quality run of matchups with playoff position on the line.

Monday

Bucks @ Bulls: A potential first round preview that could also mark Michael Carter-Williams’ debut for the Bucks. Plus, Giannis!

Timberwolves @ Rockets: Minnesota has been surprisingly spry since Ricky Rubio’s return but will be challenged by MVP candidate James Harden and the Rockets. One thing to watch is how well Trevor Ariza can contain Andrew Wiggins.

Celtics @ Suns: Isaiah Thomas return game!

Spurs @ Jazz: We get a chance to see the Stifle Tower (Rudy Gobert) in action against a team with quality bigs and drivers. I am also excited to see Kawhi Leonard show his destructive potential on both ends of the floor against Gordon Hayward.

Tuesday

Warriors @ Wizards: Assuming Stephen Curry can play, the Curry vs. Wall matchup makes this worth your close attention. Considering Washington’s trouble with top teams this year, there could be some added significance here.

Cavs @ Pistons: Detroit is coming off a notable victory over the Wizards but will need to play their best basketball to take out the steamrolling Cavaliers. LeBron James has been a monster since his break and Reggie Jackson has the chance to make a statement against Kyrie Irving.

Raptors @ Mavericks: One of those fun top of the East vs. upper middle of the West games that help us calibrate where the two conferences are at the moment. Kyle Lowry has continued his strong play this season but DeMar DeRozan may be the key player in this one. 

Wednesday

Mavericks @ Hawks: Congrats, Dallas. After hosting the Raptors they have to head to Fortress Philips to face the Hawks. Beyond Dirk Nowitzki and Paul Millsap battling at the four, I want to see how Tyson Chandler and the Mavs defend Atlanta’s five out sets.

Grizzlies @ Kings: Boogie vs. Marc and Z-Bo gets me on board every time.

Friday

Warriors @ Raptors (Game of the Week): These teams played a compelling game at Oracle and the Raptors have gotten back in stride with DeRozan’s return. Kyle Lowry has many of the physical and mental tools required to limit Steph Curry’s dominance and the Toronto crowd should be amped as well.

Spurs @ Kings: The last time these teams played in Sacramento, the Kings won by three in an entertaining game. This time the Spurs are closer to whole and the Kings have George Karl as their head coach.

Saturday

Pistons @ Wizards: Another potential playoff preview, this one a rematch of a game that happened just under a week before. On Sunday, the Pistons beat the Wizards in Detroit behind 18 and 16 from Andre Drummond. Washington will be gunning to get that win back on their home floor.

Hawks @ Heat: Even without Chris Bosh (get well soon, Chris), the Heat are compelling with Goran Dragic and the rest of their core.

Bucks @ Jazz: Two of the most fun young teams in the league even without a healthy Jabari Parker. Dante Exum and Giannis Antetokounmpo are still miles away from their ceilings while Derrick Favors and Khris Middleton are closer to theirs.