We can already hear the sounds of squeaking sneakers, bouncing balls, swishing nets and the raucous crowd. There’s nothing quite like seeing the star power of the NBA’s top teams going head-to-head on the court, and we don’t have to wait any longer for more: NBA basketball is back for another season!
Here’s our daily guide to watching NBA games on TV. We’ll keep this page up to date each day, so you don’t miss any of the exciting NBA games today on TV.
For fans who are serious about sports, and only sports, get a channel lineup packed with the games you want – only from DIRECTV.
NBA Games on TV Today
FRIDAY, MAR 14
Boston Celtics at Miami Heat – 7:00 PM – NBA TV, NBC Sports Boston
The Boston Celtics (47-19) bring their impressive 71% win percentage into a matchup that contrasts sharply with the Miami Heat‘s (29-36) current struggles, highlighted by their recent five-game losing streak. Boston’s sturdy defense, allowing just 108.3 points per game, has been a cornerstone of their success and will face a Miami team averaging 109.9 points per game. With the Celtics’ potent offense capable of putting up 116.8 points a night, Miami’s hope lies in leveraging their relative defensive stability, allowing a mere 110.6 points per game, to slow down Boston’s versatile attack. If the Heat can find a way to capitalize on any lapse in Boston’s defensive intensity, they might have a shot at breaking their current skid and securing an important home win.
Indiana Pacers at Philadelphia 76ers – 07:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Indiana Pacers (36-28) bring their solid offensive capabilities, averaging 116.4 points per game, into this contest against a Philadelphia 76ers (22-43) team that has found defensive stability elusive. With a 56% win rate, the Pacers have demonstrated their competitiveness, executing well on offense while maintaining a relatively stable defense, allowing 115.4 points per game. The 76ers, struggling at a 34% win percentage, will need to tighten their defense to contain Indiana’s scoring power. Philadelphia’s best opportunity lies in leveraging their home court to stifle the Pacers’ rhythm and capitalize on any oversights they can force defensively.
Los Angeles Clippers at Atlanta Hawks – 7:30 PM – , NBA League Pass
The Los Angeles Clippers (36-30) are in the thick of the playoff race, bringing a solid defense that holds opponents to an average of 108.9 points per game. They face off against the Atlanta Hawks (32-34), a team with a nearly even win-loss record, reflected in their 48% win rate. Atlanta has been prolific in scoring, averaging 117.4 points per game, but their defense has been porous, allowing 119.6 points per game. For the Clippers, maintaining their defensive intensity will be key to controlling this dynamic Hawks offense, while Atlanta needs to tighten their defense if they aim to rise above their current standing.
Cleveland Cavaliers at Memphis Grizzlies – 8:00 PM – , NBA League Pass
The Cleveland Cavaliers (55-10), boasting a dominant 85% win rate, bring their exceptional play into Memphis, powered by an explosive offense averaging 122.7 points per game. Their potent mix of offensive efficiency and solid defense will test the Memphis Grizzlies (42-24) who, with a 64% win rate, have shown they can compete with the league’s best. Memphis’s ability to score at will, matching Cleveland with 122.6 points per game, promises a high-scoring affair. However, the Grizzlies need to tighten their defense, which allows 116.7 points per game, to slow down a Cavaliers team adept at exploiting defensive lapses. For Memphis, controlling the pace and capitalizing on home court advantage could be crucial in disrupting Cleveland’s momentum.
Dallas Mavericks at Houston Rockets – 8:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Dallas Mavericks (33-34) face off against the Houston Rockets (41-25) in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Mavericks have been struggling slightly, sitting near a 49% win rate while allowing as many points as they score, averaging 114.8 points per game offensively and conceding 114.6 defensively. Despite their recent slip-up, they will need to lean on their ability to execute in close games. Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets, riding a four-game win streak, boast a strong 62% win percentage and a robust defense allowing just 108.8 points per game. The Mavericks’ ability to break down Houston’s defensive setup could tilt the scales, but the Rockets’ recent form suggests they’ll be tough to crack, especially at home.
Orlando Magic at Minnesota Timberwolves – 8:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Orlando Magic (31-36) head to Minnesota to face the Timberwolves (38-29) in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. Orlando has been hovering around the .500 mark, with a win percentage of 46%, relying on a sturdy defense that allows just 105.9 points per game. However, their offensive struggles are evident, with an average of only 104.4 points per game. On the other side, the Minnesota Timberwolves boast a 57% win rate and are riding high on a six-game winning streak, scoring an average of 112.9 points while maintaining a top-notch defense, only allowing 109 points per game. This contest could hinge on the Magic’s ability to break through Minnesota’s defense and ramp up their offensive production to compete with the Timberwolves’ balanced attack.
Charlotte Hornets at San Antonio Spurs – 8:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Charlotte Hornets (16-49) continue to navigate a challenging season, struggling with a 25% win rate and averaging just 105.4 points per game. Their defensive vulnerabilities are evident, allowing opponents an average of 113 points per game, which might be tested against the San Antonio Spurs (27-37). The Spurs, boasting a slightly better win rate of 42%, have managed to score 113.8 points per game despite allowing 116.1 points on defense. San Antonio will aim to leverage their scoring ability to exploit the Hornets’ defensive lapses but must stay vigilant to avoid being caught off guard by Charlotte’s potential for an upset. This matchup could be a litmus test for the Spurs’ ability to defend their home court against lower-ranked opposition.
Los Angeles Lakers at Denver Nuggets – 9:30 PM – CINE4K PPV, NBA TV
The Los Angeles Lakers (40-24) are looking to rebound from a three-game skid as they face the Denver Nuggets (42-24), who have been formidable with a 64% winning percentage. Despite their recent struggles, the Lakers’ balanced attack, averaging 112.8 points per game, makes them a tough opponent for any team. On the other hand, Denver boasts an impressive offensive output, scoring 121.1 points per game, which could exploit the Lakers’ defensive lapses. The key to this showdown will be whether the Lakers can shore up their defense against Denver’s high-powered offense. Controlling the tempo and maintaining defensive discipline will be crucial for the Lakers to snap their losing streak.
Toronto Raptors at Utah Jazz – 9:30 PM – NBA League Pass
The Toronto Raptors (23-43) look to continue their modest winning streak against the struggling Utah Jazz (15-51). With a win percentage of 35%, the Raptors have faced challenges this season, often getting exposed by high-scoring opponents due to their defense allowing 115.7 points per game. Meanwhile, the Jazz, with just a 23% win rate, have had a particularly tough season defensively, as they concede an average of 119.8 points per game. This matchup may favor Toronto’s offense, and if the Raptors can execute on offense and exploit Utah’s porous defense, they stand a good chance to claim the road victory. For the Jazz, tightening up on defense and making the most of their possessions will be crucial if they hope to secure a morale-boosting home win.
Sacramento Kings at Phoenix Suns – 10:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Sacramento Kings (33-32) are in the midst of a challenging season, holding a 51% win rate, but they’ve shown flashes of brilliance with their balanced scoring attack, averaging 116.4 points per game. They face off against the Phoenix Suns (30-36), who have struggled to find consistency, with a 45% win rate and defensive issues that have seen them allow 116.4 points per game. Sacramento’s ability to score in bunches could spell trouble for a Suns defense that needs tightening. On the flip side, if Phoenix can harness their offensive prowess, they might exploit Sacramento’s slightly vulnerable defense in this high-stakes matchup. Both teams are hungry for a win, promising a competitive showdown in the desert.
SATURDAY, MAR 15
Boston Celtics at Brooklyn Nets – 6:00 PM – NBA League Pass, NBC Sports Boston
The Boston Celtics (47-19) enter this matchup with a compelling 71% win percentage, showcasing their dominance with both offensive firepower and defensive strength, allowing just 108.3 points per game. As they travel to face the Brooklyn Nets (22-44), a team struggling with a 33% win rate, the Celtics will look to exploit their opponent’s defensive vulnerabilities. Brooklyn has had difficulty with consistency this season, both offensively and defensively, as evidenced by their allowance of 111.6 points per game. For the Nets to compete, they’ll need to find ways to disrupt Boston’s smooth offensive rhythm and capitalize on their own opportunities to score against a stout defense.
Oklahoma City Thunder at Detroit Pistons – 7:00 PM – , NBA League Pass
The Oklahoma City Thunder (54-12) are having an impressive season with an 82% win rate, driven by their high-powered offense averaging 119.7 points per game. Their defense, one of the stingiest in the league at just 107.2 points allowed per game, fortifies their dominance. On the other hand, the Detroit Pistons (37-30) are playing solid basketball with a 55% win rate, boasting a balanced offensive output of 115 points per game. This matchup promises an intriguing clash between Oklahoma City’s elite scoring and Detroit’s ability to stay competitive through efficient play. The Pistons will need to maximize their home-court advantage and challenge the Thunder’s defense to create opportunities, while Oklahoma City will aim to exploit any lapses on Detroit’s end.
Miami Heat at Memphis Grizzlies – 8:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Miami Heat (29-36) find themselves desperately searching for answers as they head into a challenging matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies (42-24). Sporting a win rate of just 45% and riding a five-game losing streak, the Heat have been struggling to find offensive consistency, averaging just 109.9 points per game. In contrast, the Grizzlies have been formidable this season, boasting a 64% win percentage and an impressive offense that puts up 122.6 points per game. Miami will need to shore up their defense, which allows 110.6 points per game, to contend with Memphis’s high-powered attack. For Memphis, maintaining their pace and capitalizing on Miami’s recent struggles will be paramount in securing another victory at home.
Indiana Pacers at Milwaukee Bucks – 8:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Indiana Pacers (36-28) continue their competitive season with a solid 56% win percentage, showcasing their ability to consistently put up points, averaging 116.4 per game. They face a Milwaukee Bucks (37-28) squad that matches them closely in offensive output, scoring 114.8 points on average, highlighting a potentially explosive matchup. While the Pacers have been steady defensively, the Bucks will look to capitalize on Indiana’s occasional defensive lapses, given their capability to exploit opponents’ weaknesses. This could be a tightly contested game where each team’s efficiency in crunch time might define the outcome. Both teams have something to prove, making this a must-watch for those who appreciate the chess match of NBA game strategy.
Chicago Bulls at Houston Rockets – 8:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Chicago Bulls (28-38) come into this matchup riding a four-game win streak, showing improved offensive chemistry that has seen them average 116.6 points per game. However, their defense remains porous, conceding 120.2 points on average, which could be problematic against the Houston Rockets (41-25), who boast a solid 62% win rate and a defense that allows just 108.8 points per game. Houston’s balanced approach and recent string of victories give them a slight edge, particularly if they can control the tempo and capitalize on Chicago’s defensive lapses. The Bulls will need to maintain their offensive momentum while tightening their defense to challenge the Rockets on their home court.
New York Knicks at Golden State Warriors – 8:30 PM – ABC, ESPN Deportes, ESPN+
The New York Knicks (42-23) bring their robust 65% win percentage into a highly anticipated clash against the Golden State Warriors (38-28). The Knicks have been formidable on both ends of the floor, with an average of 117.1 points per game while holding opponents to 112.7 points. This balance will be tested against a Warriors squad riding a six-game winning streak, boasting a 58% win rate and a defense that concedes just 111.2 points per game. Golden State’s ability to contain New York’s offensive ambitions and dictate the tempo will be critical, while the Knicks will look to leverage their high-powered offense to challenge the Warriors’ impressive defensive setups. Expect tactical adjustments and momentum swings in a game that holds significant playoff implications for both teams.
New Orleans Pelicans at San Antonio Spurs – 8:30 PM – NBA League Pass
The San Antonio Spurs (27-37) clash with the New Orleans Pelicans (18-49) in a matchup featuring two teams trying to find some spark in a challenging season. The Spurs enter with a modest 42% win rate, characterized by their competitive scoring at 113.8 points per game, but defensive struggles allowing 116.1 points points per game keep them in the middle of the pack. Meanwhile, the Pelicans have endured a rough campaign, winning only 27% of their games and allowing a concerning 119 points per contest. San Antonio’s ability to convert on offensive opportunities could prove pivotal against New Orleans’ vulnerable defense. For the Pelicans, securing a win hinges on tightening up defensively and executing in transition to exploit any lapses in San Antonio’s strategy.
Washington Wizards at Denver Nuggets – 9:00 PM – , NBA League Pass
The Washington Wizards (14-51) face a formidable challenge against the Denver Nuggets (42-24) as they try to snap a difficult season with only a 22% win rate. The Wizards have struggled defensively, allowing 120.6 points per game, which could spell trouble against Denver’s potent offense, which averages 121.1 points per game. Despite their recent slump, the Nuggets’ strong 64% win rate reflects their ability to perform well, especially when their high-paced offensive game is firing on all cylinders. For Washington, tightening up their problematic defense will be critical if they hope to keep pace with Denver’s high-scoring attack and make this a competitive contest.
SUNDAY, MAR 16
Orlando Magic at Cleveland Cavaliers – 1:00 PM – ABC, ESPN+, NBA TV
The Orlando Magic (31-36) face a daunting task as they take on the Cleveland Cavaliers (55-10), who have been nothing short of spectacular this season with an 85% win rate. Orlando’s disciplined play, resulting in a respectable defense allowing just 105.9 points per game, will need to be at its best to contain Cleveland’s high-octane offense, which averages 122.7 points per game. The Cavaliers, riding a 15-game winning streak, showcase their defensive prowess by limiting opponents to 111.4 points per game. For the Magic, maintaining composure and executing in the half-court will be crucial to staying competitive, while Cleveland aims to leverage their balanced attack to keep their momentum going.
Philadelphia 76ers at Dallas Mavericks – 1:00 PM – ABC, ESPN+, NBA League Pass
The Philadelphia 76ers (22-43) head into Dallas struggling to gain any momentum this season, with a paltry 34% win rate and an offense averaging just 109.4 points per game. They’ll face the Dallas Mavericks (33-34), who are also searching for consistency with a nearly even 49% win percentage. Dallas’ offensive firepower, at 114.8 points per game, presents a formidable challenge for a Philadelphia team that has faltered defensively, allowing 114.4 points on average. The Mavericks will look to capitalize on Philadelphia’s defensive vulnerabilities, while the 76ers need to find a way to disrupt Dallas’ rhythm and exploit their own defensive lapses to have a shot at an upset.
Phoenix Suns at Los Angeles Lakers – 3:30 PM – ABC, ESPN+
The Phoenix Suns (30-36) face a formidable challenge as they head to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers (40-24). The Suns have been treading water with a 45% win rate, struggling mostly on the defensive end, where they allow 116.4 points per game. They’ll need to tighten up significantly against a Lakers team that has been one of the better defensive squads in the league, allowing just 111.4 points per game and winning 63% of their contests. Los Angeles’ steady offense, averaging 112.8 points per game, will test the Suns’ resilience, and Phoenix must find a way to disrupt the Lakers’ rhythm if they hope to leave the Staples Center with a win. Controlling the tempo and improving their defensive pressure will be critical for the Suns in this matchup.
Atlanta Hawks at Brooklyn Nets – 6:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Atlanta Hawks (32-34) bring their nearly balanced win-loss record into a matchup against the Brooklyn Nets (22-44). With a win percentage of 48%, the Hawks have managed to stay competitive on the back of their potent offense, averaging 117.4 points per game. However, their defense, which gives up 119.6 points per game, will need to tighten up against a Brooklyn team that has struggled this season. The Nets, with a 33% win rate, average just 105.3 points per game. For Brooklyn to have a chance, they’ll need to utilize their solid defensive efforts—allowing 111.6 points per game—to slow down Atlanta’s attack. This game could be an opportunity for both teams to adjust defensively and seek a morale-boosting victory.
Toronto Raptors at Portland Trail Blazers – 6:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Toronto Raptors (23-43), currently struggling with a 35% win rate, head to Portland to face off against the Trail Blazers (28-39). The Raptors have been inconsistent on defense, allowing an average of 115.7 points per game, which could prove problematic against a Portland team that, despite its own issues this season, still manages to put up 110.6 points per game. With both teams facing challenges in preventing their opponents from scoring, this matchup could transform into a high-scoring affair. For the Raptors to find success on the road, they’ll need to seize opportunities to exploit Portland’s defensive lapses, while the Blazers will aim to lean on home-court advantage to outscore the visitors.
Utah Jazz at Minnesota Timberwolves – 7:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Utah Jazz (15-51) are navigating a challenging season with a win rate of just 23% and a defense that has struggled, allowing 119.8 points per game. They face the Minnesota Timberwolves (38-29), who are on a hot streak with a 57% win rate and a solid defense conceding only 109 points per contest. Minnesota’s success has been largely due to their ability to control the tempo and capitalize on opponent lapses, which could pose significant challenges for the Jazz’s shaky defense. Utah will need to find a way to tighten their defensive schemes and boost their offensive efficiency to contend with the Timberwolves’ well-rounded performance. For Minnesota, maintaining focus and exploiting Utah’s vulnerabilities could lead to another successful outing at home.
Charlotte Hornets at Los Angeles Clippers – 7:00 PM – NBA League Pass
The Charlotte Hornets (16-49) are in a challenging spot this season, as reflected by their 25% win percentage and struggles on both ends of the floor. Averaging just 105.4 points per game while allowing 113, they have found wins hard to come by. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Clippers (36-30) boast a more balanced approach, with a respectable 55% win rate complemented by a solid defense that gives up only 108.9 points per game. This matchup will likely see the Clippers’ stability being tested against the Hornets’ desperation for improvement. For Charlotte, the key will be finding offensive rhythm, while the Clippers aim to assert their defensive presence to maintain control in this contest.
Oklahoma City Thunder at Milwaukee Bucks – 9:00 PM – ESPN, ESPN Deportes
The Oklahoma City Thunder (54-12) bring their impressive 82% win rate into a matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks (37-28), showcasing their potent offense that averages 119.7 points per game. Known for their disciplined defense, allowing just 107.2 points on average, the Thunder’s all-around dominance presents a significant challenge for any opponent. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks have carved out a respectable season with a 57% win rate, bolstered by their ability to score efficiently at 114.8 points per game. However, their defense, which gives up 112.4 points, will need to be at its best to contain Oklahoma City’s high-paced attack. The Bucks’ path to victory lies in leveraging their home-court advantage and exploiting any signs of complacency from the visiting Thunder.
Where to Watch NBA Games
There are plenty of places to make sure you don’t miss a moment of your favorite NBA team’s season. Here’s where to watch NBA games on TV today and all season long:
- REGIONAL SPORTS LINEUP (only available in some areas)
- ESPN: Channel 206
- ABC: Find your local affiliate channel here
- TNT: Channel 245
- NBA TV HD: Channel 216
- NBA League Pass
Don’t forget to add the DIRECTV Sports Pack to your subscription to make sure you can keep up with your favorite sports and so much more. Not to mention, find out how to access even more games on NBA League Pass with DIRECTV!
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