Despite the huge stakes of the final full week of the regular season, the non-national slate looks pretty weak at the outset. That likely means we will see some surprisingly close games since most times I lament a weak schedule it turns out pretty well.

Tuesday

Spurs @ Timberwolves: If Kevin Love plays (back spasms kept him out of Saturday’s game), this could be somewhat interesting since the Wolves had a surprising double overtime win at home against Miami last week.

Wednesday

Bobcats @ Wizards: Only separated by a single game in the loss column, this could play a major role in figuring out who gets the sixth seed in the East. Even though the Pacers have had a rough go of it lately, I doubt either of these teams would rather face them than whoever gets the three.

Suns @ Pelicans: After missing a game with back spasms, Anthony Davis played on Friday so he may play against the Suns. If so, it makes for a much more interesting contest since the Suns have so much on the line.

Rockets @ Nuggets: I just have a sneaking suspicion this one could be entertaining for a while. Seems like a likely Rockets win but it could still yield some fireworks.

Friday

Knicks @ Raptors: A big game for both teams because of how close their respective races are at the moment. Carmelo will need to have a statement game on the road against a quality opponent.

Hawks @ Nets: Like the Knicks, the Hawks have a big road game against a dangerous playoff team. Even with a three game lead in the loss column as of now, Atlanta cannot afford to give the Knicks an easier path to the playoffs. At the same time Brooklyn still has enough time to improve their standing and possibly grab home court for the first round with a furious finish.

Rockets @ Timberwolves: Again, this depends on health but it could be interesting.

Sixers @ Grizzlies: Just kidding.

Suns @ Spurs: This game will definitely be important for Phoenix but the Spurs may be taking their foot off the gas pedal around here since they hold a four game lead right now (partially thanks to the Suns) and this marks their third to last game. Either way, it should be tons of fun.

Sunday

Bulls @ Knicks: Like the Friday games, this one should be fun because each team has their own major incentives and pressures. The battle for the three seed should be largely clarified at this point and the Bulls may have substantially more motivation to get it if the Pacers stay in the #2 spot as expected. Meanwhile, the Knicks have to go after every game in order to make the postseason.

Warriors @ Trail Blazers (Game of the Week): The events of the last few days have made this one substantially more interesting. Unless one of these teams loses unexpectedly before Sunday, there could be one game separating them when this contest occurs. Since the Warriors won two of the previous three meetings, the Blazers have to fight for a split and firmer control of the fifth seed in the West.