The non-national portion of the season ends with a little more of a whimper this year because some big issues have been clarified already and others will come in nationally televised games. That said, there are still plenty of good games and storylines to watch in the final three days of what has been an incredibly fun regular season. 

Monday

Bulls @ Nets: Chicago needs to win out to have a shot at the #3 seed while Brooklyn still needs to secure a place in the dance. Brook Lopez has played pretty well recently but will need to bring it against a stacked Chicago front line who has plenty to play for.

Pelicans @ Timberwolves: After losing to Houston, New Orleans and Oklahoma City have equal records with two games to go, with the Pelicans holding the tiebreaker. The Pelicans could clinch the 8-seed on Monday with a win and OKC loss against Portland (on NBATV with the same start time). Plus, Anthony Davis and Andrew Wiggins sharing the court could lead to some exciting moments.

Tuesday

Raptors @ Celtics: The only non-national game of the day has the largest consequences as both squads are battling for something. The Raptors have the tiebreaker over Chicago, so winning out means the #3 seed and avoiding a tougher first round against the Wizards. Boston reaped the benefits of the schedule in two wins over a resting Cavs team but still need to do a little more to lock in their spot.

Wednesday

Hawks @ Bulls: Depending on how Raptors/Celtics turns out, this game could mean a ton for the Bulls. Atlanta has their #1 seed wrapped up but this could be a second-round preview.

Jazz @ Rockets: Houston is right in the middle of the scrum for the 2, 3, 5 and 6 seeds plus they have the second-toughest final game of that group. The Jazz have played quite well recently and could relish the role of spoiler one last time this season. Look for Rudy Gobert to have an outsized impact against MVP candidate and elite penetrator James Harden, a particularly interesting duel because the Stifle Tower does not foul much for a quality rim protector.

Celtics @ Bucks: Milwaukee should be resting their core here but this game could shape the 1/8 and 2/7 first round pairings.  Look for Isaiah Thomas in particular to stand out if Boston needs the win to claim the 7th seed.

Spurs @ Pelicans (Game of the Week): This could decide the final spot in the West and have massive seeding ramifications throughout the conference.

Pistons @ Knicks: After inconceivably winning against the Magic to move into a tie with Minnesota for the worst record in the league (and splitting the ping pong balls), New York could win at home and move into second all by themselves. Detroit’s win over Charlotte on Sunday likely solidifies their draft pick so they have no incentive to lose but I have seen crazier things. 

Non-National Games of the Week Awards

Since I am writing a full awards column this year, the NNGW Awards will be reduced to the All-NNGW Team:

G- Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

G- Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder

F- Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans

F- LeBron James, Miami Heat

C- DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings