The NBA has officially released its 2024-25 regular-season schedule, and among the highly anticipated matchups are a series of intriguing homecoming games. These games often stir emotions, as former players return to face their old teams, sometimes with a point to prove. Whether fueled by a desire for revenge or simply the thrill of returning to familiar courts, these games promise drama and intensity. Here’s a look at some of the must-watch homecoming matchups for the upcoming season:
Oct. 23: Doc Rivers Returns to Philadelphia (Bucks at 76ers) Doc Rivers will make his return to Philadelphia, coaching the Milwaukee Bucks, after being dismissed by the 76ers following their 2023 Eastern Conference semifinal loss to the Boston Celtics. Rivers, who faced criticism for his inability to lead the Sixers past the second round for three consecutive seasons, will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to secure a win against his former team on opening night.
Oct. 25: Obi Toppin Back at Madison Square Garden (Pacers at Knicks) Obi Toppin, traded by the Knicks to the Pacers, returns to Madison Square Garden. Although Toppin has faced the Knicks multiple times since the trade, including in last year’s New York-Indiana conference semifinals, his history as a former No. 8 overall pick who never fully flourished under Tom Thibodeau adds a layer of intrigue to this matchup.
Oct. 28: Alex Sarr Faces the Hawks (Wizards at Hawks) Rookie Alex Sarr, who was once projected to be the top pick for the Hawks, returns to Atlanta. After the Hawks opted for Zaccharie Risacher in the draft, Sarr will be eager to show his former suitors that they made a mistake, especially after struggling in the Summer League.
Nov. 6: Paul George Returns to Los Angeles (76ers at Clippers) Paul George returns to face the Clippers, now as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, after the Clippers chose not to offer him a max contract. As the Clippers open their new arena without George, the All-Star forward will look to make a statement against the team that let him walk.
Nov. 12: Klay Thompson Returns to the Bay (Mavericks at Warriors) Perhaps the most emotional homecoming of the season, Klay Thompson will return to the Bay Area as a member of the Dallas Mavericks. After 13 legendary seasons with the Golden State Warriors, Thompson’s departure was marred by contract disputes. Expect a charged atmosphere as Thompson looks to prove a point against his former team.
Nov. 22: Ben Simmons Back in Philadelphia (Nets at 76ers) Even as Ben Simmons’ relevance in the league has diminished, his return to Philadelphia will always be a story. The former 76ers star, now with the Brooklyn Nets, will face his old team in a matchup that’s sure to draw attention, given the turbulent end to his tenure in Philly.
Nov. 24: James Harden Returns to Philadelphia (Clippers at 76ers) Just days after Simmons’ return, James Harden will also face the 76ers. Harden forced his way out of Philadelphia in a messy breakup, and though he’s already faced his former team, the animosity is still fresh, making this a game to watch.
Dec. 2: Dejounte Murray Returns to Atlanta (Pelicans at Hawks) Dejounte Murray returns to Atlanta after an underwhelming stint with the Hawks. Although the split was amicable, Murray will likely be eager to show what he can do, especially given his improved play in New Orleans.
Dec. 23: RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley Face the Knicks (Raptors at Knicks) RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, traded to the Raptors as part of the OG Anunoby deal, will return to Madison Square Garden. Although the Knicks have moved on, Barrett and Quickley will be motivated to make an impact against their former team.
Jan. 10: Isaiah Hartenstein Returns to MSG (Thunder at Knicks) Isaiah Hartenstein, who was a fan favorite during his time with the Knicks, returns to MSG as a member of the Thunder. Unlike some other homecomings, this one is likely to be filled with love and appreciation from the New York crowd.
Jan. 12: DeMar DeRozan Back in Chicago (Kings at Bulls) DeMar DeRozan will return to Chicago after being traded to the Kings. Despite the Bulls’ disappointing return in the trade, DeRozan’s impact on the team was significant, and he’ll likely receive a warm reception from the Chicago fans.
Jan. 21: Mikal Bridges at Barclays Center (Knicks at Nets) Mikal Bridges returns to Brooklyn after a blockbuster trade sent him to the Knicks. While the trade was seen as a win-win for both sides, Bridges will undoubtedly want to perform well against his former team.
Jan. 28: Damian Lillard Returns to Portland (Bucks at Blazers) Damian Lillard will once again face the Portland Trail Blazers as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks. Despite a subpar performance in his first return, Lillard’s connection to Portland ensures this will be a noteworthy game every time he returns.
Feb. 6: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Back in Denver (Magic at Nuggets) After being let go by the Nuggets in a cost-saving move, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope will face his former team as a member of the Orlando Magic. Expect Caldwell-Pope to be eager to prove that Denver made the wrong decision.
March 19: Russell Westbrook Takes on the Lakers (Nuggets at Lakers) Russell Westbrook’s turbulent tenure with the Lakers is well-documented, and every time he returns to face them, there’s an extra edge to his game. Now with the Nuggets, Westbrook will look to make a statement against the team that made him a scapegoat.
March 24: Kyrie Irving Returns to Brooklyn (Mavericks at Nets) Kyrie Irving’s return to Brooklyn as a member of the Mavericks will continue to be a storyline, even though his time with the Nets is in the past. The drama surrounding his departure ensures this game will be watched closely.
March 31: Josh Giddey Returns to Oklahoma City (Bulls at Thunder) Josh Giddey, traded to the Bulls for Alex Caruso, returns to Oklahoma City. After being a key player for the Thunder, Giddey will be looking to show his former team that he can lead an offense in Chicago.
These homecoming games, filled with narratives of redemption and rivalry, are sure to be highlights of the 2024-25 NBA season. Whether you’re tuning in for the emotional returns or just the high-stakes basketball, these matchups are not to be missed.
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