As anticipation for the 2024-25 NBA season builds, the release of the full schedule has fans buzzing about the key matchups and the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25. Nationally televised games highlight a team’s popularity, star power, and potential to captivate viewers. The NBA carefully curates these broadcasts to showcase the league’s most exciting players and compelling story lines. This season, these seven teams stand out for their significant number of nationally televised games. Let’s dive into which teams are leading the pack and why they’re dominating prime time.
Table of Contents
7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25
1. Los Angeles Lakers – 27 Nationally Televised Games
Unsurprisingly, the Los Angeles Lakers top the list with the most nationally televised games, boasting a whopping 27 matchups. This comes as no shock to NBA fans. The Lakers have long been one of the league’s most iconic franchises, and with LeBron James still at the helm, they remain a must-watch team. As LeBron enters his 22nd season, every game holds historical significance, and fans won’t want to miss a moment. Additionally, the presence of Anthony Davis and the team’s potential playoff run further enhances their draw. The Lakers’ national exposure reflects their status as a global brand and a perennial contender.
2. Boston Celtics – 26 Nationally Televised Games
Hot on the Lakers’ heels are the reigning champions, the Boston Celtics, with 26 nationally televised games. The Celtics’ recent success, including last season’s championship run, has solidified their place as one of the league’s top teams. Led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston combines youth with experience, making them an exciting team to watch. The NBA’s decision to give the Celtics such a heavy presence on national TV underscores their role as a premier franchise in the league, with a roster that promises to be competitive for years to come.
3. Golden State Warriors – 24 Nationally Televised Games
Among the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25, the Golden State Warriors, led by the legendary Stephen Curry, are set to be featured in 24 nationally televised games this season. Despite last year’s earlier-than-expected playoff exit, the Warriors remain one of the NBA’s most electrifying teams. Curry’s dazzling shooting and the team’s fast-paced style keep viewers hooked. The return of Klay Thompson to the Bay Area on November 12 adds another layer of intrigue to their season. The Warriors’ sustained success over the past decade has firmly cemented their place as a national TV staple.
4. New York Knicks – 24 Nationally Televised Games
The New York Knicks have revitalized their image over the past few seasons, earning 24 nationally televised games this year, making them one of the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25. With a stellar offseason and a strong finish last season, the Knicks are once again serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. Madison Square Garden, one of the most iconic venues in sports, will host a resurgent roster poised to make noise. Their packed national TV schedule reflects the league’s confidence in their ability to deliver compelling basketball and their importance in the massive New York market.
5. Dallas Mavericks – 23 Nationally Televised Games
The Dallas Mavericks, one of the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25, will appear on national television 23 times this season. Featuring Luka Dončić, a rising star in the league, and the unpredictable brilliance of Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks have become a must-watch team. The addition of Klay Thompson and last season’s surprise finals appearance have only added to their allure. Luka’s unique skill set, paired with Irving’s dynamic play, makes the Mavericks one of the most intriguing teams to follow, securing their prominent spot on the national schedule.
6. Denver Nuggets – 22 Nationally Televised Games
The Denver Nuggets, one of the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25, are slotted for 22 nationally televised games. Despite not having the largest market, the Nuggets’ consistent performance and two-time MVP Nikola Jokić’s brilliance make them a must-watch on the national stage. Their style of play, featuring exceptional ball movement and team-oriented basketball, appeals to both purists and casual fans. As they continue to challenge for the Western Conference title, the Nuggets’ games will undoubtedly be among the most anticipated this season.
7. Philadelphia 76ers – 21 Nationally Televised Games
The Philadelphia 76ers round out the top tier with 21 nationally televised games, solidifying their spot among the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25. With Joel Embiid coming off an MVP season and Tyrese Maxey emerging as a rising star, the Sixers are poised for another strong campaign. The addition of Paul George only adds to their appeal. However, with the ongoing drama surrounding James Harden, every 76ers game could be filled with potential storylines, making them a compelling watch for NBA fans across the country.
8. Phoenix Suns – 19 Nationally Televised Games
Despite the Suns’ challenges last season, they remain one of the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25. With superstars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker leading the charge, their 19 nationally televised games underscore their undeniable star power. While some might argue that they are overrepresented given last season’s performance, the Suns’ continued media presence highlights the league’s faith in their potential to captivate audiences.
9. Minnesota Timberwolves – 18 Nationally Televised Games
Anthony Edwards is the standout star for the Timberwolves, bringing infectious energy and excitement that makes them a must-watch team. With 18 national games this season, the Timberwolves have rightfully earned their place among the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25. Edwards’ electrifying plays and dynamic presence on the court guarantee thrilling matchups, making each game an event fans won’t want to miss.
10. Milwaukee Bucks – 17 Nationally Televised Games
The Milwaukee Bucks are one of the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25, largely due to the unmatched star power of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Although the Bucks faced a disappointing playoff exit last season, Giannis continues to be one of the league’s most electrifying players, consistently drawing massive viewership. His incredible athleticism, combined with his ability to take over games, ensures that the Bucks will be a must-watch team on the national stage, keeping fans glued to their screens throughout the season.
11. Oklahoma City Thunder – 15 Nationally Televised Games
With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge, Chet Holmgren showcasing his talent, and a treasure trove of future draft picks, the Oklahoma City Thunder are on a fast track to becoming one of the most exciting teams in the league. Their 15 nationally televised games are a clear sign of their growing status and why they’re one of the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25. Keep an eye on the Thunder as they continue to make waves and capture the attention of basketball fans nationwide.
12. San Antonio Spurs – 13 Nationally Televised Games
Victor Wembanyama’s arrival in San Antonio, combined with his standout Olympic performance, has elevated the Spurs into one of the 7 NBA Teams to Watch Dominate TV in 2024-25. His presence alone has turned the Spurs into a must-watch team, earning them 13 nationally televised games this season. This attention is well-deserved, as Wembanyama’s impact on the court and his potential to transform the franchise make every Spurs game a significant event for basketball fans.
13. Indiana Pacers – 9 Nationally Televised Games
Tyrese Haiburton and the Pacers had a breakout season, leading to a high-scoring offence and a deep playoff run. While nine games are a decent number, they might deserve even more national attention.
14. Los Angeles Clippers – 9 Nationally Televised Games
With Paul George gone, the Clippers still have star power in Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, but injuries are always a concern. Nine games seem fair given their unpredictable availability.
15. Memphis Grizzlies – 9 Nationally Televised Games
Ja Morant’s return should boost the Grizzlies, who are one of the most entertaining teams when fully healthy. Their nine national games could end up being some of the most exciting of the season.
16. New Orleans Pelicans – 9 Nationally Televised Games
Zion Williamson’s injury history keeps the Pelicans from receiving more national attention. When healthy, they’re an electrifying team, but the uncertainty around Zion’s availability limits their exposure.
16. Cleveland Cavaliers – 8 Nationally Televised Games
The Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell, are a middle-of-the-pack team when it comes to national TV appearances. Despite a solid playoff run, they haven’t done enough to break into the top tier.
17. Miami Heat – 7 Nationally Televised Games
The Heat are unpredictable, often barely making the playoffs but then going on deep postseason runs. However, this year feels different, and the limited national exposure suggests the magic might have worn off.
18. Sacramento Kings – 6 Nationally Televised Games
After breaking their playoff drought two seasons ago, the Kings regressed slightly last season. Despite this, their exciting offense, now featuring DeMar DeRozan, has earned them six national TV games.
19. Orlando Magic – 5 Nationally Televised Games
Despite a playoff appearance and an All-Star in Paolo Banchero, the Magic’s defensive style and low-scoring games limit their appeal on a national stage. However, they had a thrilling playoff series against the Cavaliers last season that should not be overlooked.
20. Houston Rockets – 3 Nationally Televised Games
With a mix of young talent like Jalen Green and veterans like Fred VanVleet, the Rockets could be a surprise team this season. Their three national games may seem low, but they have the potential to outshine this modest exposure.
The Reasoning Behind the Selections
The selection of teams for national television is a calculated process that takes into account various factors:
- Star Power: Teams with marquee players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Luka Dončić naturally attract more viewers, which translates to more national TV games. These players have fan bases that extend beyond their home markets, making their games a national event.
- Market Size: Teams in larger markets, such as the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks, often receive more national games due to the sheer size of their potential audience. The NBA leverages these markets to maximize viewership and advertising revenue.
- Team Performance: Recent success or expected competitiveness plays a crucial role. Reigning champions like the Boston Celtics or teams with strong playoff potential like the Philadelphia 76ers are given more national exposure to showcase high-level basketball.
- Compelling Storylines: The NBA thrives on narratives, whether it’s a star player returning from injury, a team making a surprising playoff run, or off-court drama. Teams that offer these storylines are more likely to be featured on national television.
- Historic and Cultural Significance: Franchises with rich histories, like the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors, or those with cultural significance, like the Los Angeles Lakers, are often highlighted to tap into the legacy and emotional connections fans have with these teams.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 NBA season promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with a mix of established powerhouses and emerging teams ready to take the spotlight. The distribution of nationally televised games offers fans across the country ample opportunity to watch their favourite stars and follow the league’s most compelling story lines. Whether you’re tuning in to see LeBron make history, witnessing the next chapter in the Celtics’ storied legacy, or catching Luka Dončić’s magic, this season’s national TV schedule has something for everyone.
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