This is a coverage for some matches holding on Friday, August 7, the second week in the bubble. Some games have taken place already and would still take place during the week leading to Friday. So far, the games played have gone smoothly well, with some major expectations happening, such as the fact that MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo would continue his 30+ points per game roll.
The first Friday match we would be looking at is the one between Utah Jazz and San Antonio Spurs. For those of us who may not know, it was Utah Jazz that brought the NBA season to a halt after one of their players tested positive for the virus. That game was cancelled, and the NBA was on a hiatus till games resumed last Thursday. They seemed to have made up for that by winning their first game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Jordan Clarkson led with 23 points, and with a scoreline of 106, you can see how other players contributed to making their team stand out.
However, they lost their next game against Oklahoma City Thunder by 16 points. Spurs lost their first game against Sacramento Kings by just 9 points, not very unusual, going by the history of both teams. Still, one must acknowledge the effort of De’Aaron Fox, who helped his side with 39 points even though they lost. Based on recent meetings between Jazz and Spurs, it would not be a surprise if Spurs lead Jazz by at least 5 points. Spurs are also more likely to win by over 100 points.
Sacramento Kings vs. Brooklyn Nets is another fixture to watch out for that day. The Kings proved themselves after winning their first game in the bubble, setting a good pace for the rest of the season. The Nets lost their first game, but they have plenty of time to make up for it. If their last meeting is anything to go by, then Kings would have to play extra hard to defeat their Brooklyn opponents. Nets also have to watch out from surprises from their opponents who may try to repeat what they did last Friday. Both teams might have a combined 200 points with more than 100 points each.
The last game for the night would be between Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors. The Raptors already made an example of the Los Angeles Lakers, showing us how prepared they are for the rest of the season. Though they seem to be in form, they may not be able to prove themselves against the Boston Celtics, who have lost one game already against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Even the championship status is no assurance that the Raptors are ready to face the Celtics, who have won more of their games. But the inclusion of Kyle Lowry and Kawhi Leonard could make the difference for the Raptors, like it did back in December 2019.
