NBA Schedule: Top 5 games from Week 1 of the 2019-20 season

#2 Celtics vs 76ers: October 23rd, 2019, 7:30 PM

Boston Celtics introduce Kemba Walker and Enes Kantar

Night two of the NBA schedule brings a game that will either be a big dud or could see a resurgence from the Boston Celtics. With Kyrie Irving no longer around to cause chemistry problems and badmouth his teammates, the Celtics have a chance to return to the style of basketball that got people hyped about their chances after a 7-game Eastern Conference Finals loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018.

Kemba Walker showed signs of an improved shooting stroke in 2019. A sign and trade deal sent point guard Terry Rozier to Charlotte in return of the services of Kemba Walker. If this move pans out, the Celtics are once again a top 4 team in the East and a threat to get through to at least the Eastern Conference Finals.

The 76ers made big changes as well. J.J. Redick left Philly for the New Orleans Pelicans and a sign and trade was worked out with the Heat sending Jimmy Butler to Miami in exchange for Josh Richardson. Richardson is a younger more coachable asset than Butler and his presence in the lineup should not disrupt center Joel Embiid’s style of play.

Richardson is also a strong defensive player. Overall, Philadelphia is expected to challenge Milwaukee for the top spot in the East. If this game is a tough close victory, needs overtime or becomes a blowout in favor of Boston, it could be an early sign Boston means business in 2019/20.