As a longtime NBA analyst who’s tracked preseason schedules for over a decade, I’ve always found these early matchups reveal more than casual fans might expect. The 2023-24 NBA preseason officially tips off on October 3rd, and while these games don’t count in the standings, they set the tone for the marathon ahead—especially for teams with championship aspirations. I vividly remember how last year’s preseason hinted at the Denver Nuggets’ eventual dominance; their ball movement and conditioning stood out even in low-stakes environments. This year, I’m particularly intrigued by how reigning champions handle these warm-up contests, because as history shows, even the strongest teams can stumble early.
Take, for instance, the pattern we’ve seen in other leagues—like the National University basketball scenario where the defending champ suffered Round 1 losses in back-to-back seasons. It’s a reminder that preseason isn’t just about shaking off rust; it’s where vulnerabilities surface. For the 2023-24 NBA preseason, key matchups like Lakers vs. Warriors on October 13th or Celtics vs. 76ers on October 11th will test revamped rosters under real pressure. From my perspective, the Warriors’ clash with the Suns on October 18th could be a sleeper hit—both teams added depth this offseason, and I’m betting we’ll see some explosive small-ball lineups. Personally, I’m rooting for the young Thunder squad to surprise a few giants; their pace in transition could disrupt slower contenders.
What’s fascinating is how these games influence team psychology. When a title favorite drops a preseason game, it’s easy to dismiss it as meaningless, but I’ve spoken to players who admit it stings. They remember those losses, and it fuels adjustments. For example, the Nuggets have three preseason games on the road, which I think will challenge their bench unit’s consistency—a factor that might haunt them come playoffs. On the flip side, the Bucks have a relatively light schedule, with only four preseason appearances, but facing the Grizzlies on October 12th will be a true litmus test for their defensive upgrades. Stat-wise, last preseason saw an average of 112.8 points per game across the league, and I’d wager we’ll see that climb to around 115 this year with faster tempos.
Ultimately, the 2023-24 preseason is a narrative goldmine. It’s where legacy teams either reinforce their dominance or expose cracks, much like that National U example where one opponent repeatedly thwarted a sweep. As someone who’s watched countless hours of preseason film, I believe these matchups offer invaluable insights—so mark your calendars, because the story of next season’s champion might just begin in October.
