The NBA has announced rescheduled dates for two games postponed earlier this month. One game was delayed due to wildfires in Los Angeles, and another was postponed because of severe weather in New Orleans. Additionally, seven other games have been rescheduled to accommodate these changes.
NBA Announces Rescheduled Dates For Postponed Games
Spurs @ Lakers: Rescheduled for March 11
The Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs will now face off on March 11. Originally scheduled for January 11, this game fits into a crucial stretch for the Lakers. They will face three back-to-backs in a row, playing six games in seven days during Week 22. This could significantly impact their playoff seeding, as the Lakers are currently fifth in the West.
The Lakers are eight games above .500 and riding a four-game win streak. Their recent surge comes from improved defense and a clearer team identity. However, trade rumors could disrupt the team’s chemistry.
The Spurs, in contrast, are 12th in the West and struggling. They’ve won only three of their last 10 games and are 2.5 games out of the play-in tournament. Victor Wembanyama continues to impress and is expected to earn his first All-Star selection soon. For the Spurs, this game precedes a six-game streak against Eastern Conference opponents.
Bucks @ Pelicans: Rescheduled for April 6
The Milwaukee Bucks and New Orleans Pelicans will now meet on April 6. Initially scheduled for January 22, this game will take place in Week 24, just before the final week of the season.
The Bucks, fourth in the East, are gaining momentum. They’ve won eight of their last 10 games, powered by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. They sit 3.5 games behind the Knicks in third and 3.5 games ahead of the sixth-place Heat.
The Pelicans, on the other hand, have struggled due to injuries. They are 14th in the West with a 12-35 record and hold the third-best lottery odds. This game might serve as another opportunity for them to improve their draft position. For the Bucks, it will be the second game of a back-to-back, adding another layer of difficulty.
Magic @ Bulls: Rescheduled for March 6
The Orlando Magic and Chicago Bulls will now play on March 6, moved up from March 12. Both teams have struggled recently, but their trajectories differ.
The Magic, seventh in the East, aim to climb into the top six to secure home-court advantage in the playoffs. With Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner returning from injuries, the team hopes to regain early-season form.
The Bulls are 10th in the East and holding the final play-in spot. They are 2.5 games behind the Hawks and 1.5 games ahead of the 76ers. Trade rumors surround their roster, creating uncertainty about the team’s direction after the deadline though they are tilting towards a rebuild.
Raptors @ Warriors: Rescheduled for March 20
The Toronto Raptors and Golden State Warriors will now play on March 20, rescheduled from March 18. Both teams are in unpredictable situations as they approach the trade deadline.
The Raptors have struggled with injuries, which derailed the first half of their season. With a 14-32 record, they are 5.5 games behind the Bulls for the final play-in spot. It’s unclear if the team will be buyers or sellers at the trade deadline, as several veterans have been linked to trade rumors.
The Warriors are slightly better off with a 22-23 record. They sit 1.5 games behind the Kings for the final play-in spot. Stephen Curry has publicly stated his desire for the team to avoid drastic roster changes. With this game coming after a back-to-back, its late-season timing might make it a low-stakes matchup for both sides.
Other Scheduling Adjustments
Several additional changes were made to fit the postponed games into the schedule:
- Magic @ Spurs: Rescheduled from March 17 to April 1.
- Bucks @ Lakers: Moved from March 18 to March 20.
- Bucks @ Warriors: Shifted from March 20 to March 18.
- Magic @ Pelicans: Moved up from April 6 to March 13.
- Pelicans @ Bucks: Rescheduled from April 9 to April 10.
NBA Rescheduled Dates: Implications for Teams
The rescheduled games could have significant playoff implications, particularly for the Lakers and Bucks. The Lakers face a grueling stretch that could impact their playoff seeding. Meanwhile, the Bucks aim to secure a top-four seed in the East.
For the Spurs and Pelicans, these games may hold less importance. Both teams are focused on rebuilding and positioning themselves for the lottery. The Magic and Bulls, however, will use these matchups to strengthen their postseason aspirations.
The NBA’s adjustments balance logistical challenges with competitive fairness, ensuring teams have opportunities to achieve their season goals.
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