NBA schedule 2014: LeBron James, Kevin Love debut for Cavaliers
LeBron makes his Cleveland debut while the Thunder visit the Clips to finish off a back-to-back.
Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports
The third day of the NBA season doesn’t feature quite as many games as the last one, but it offers up a pair of marquee matchups on national television.
The main course
LeBron James' first game back in a Cleveland Cavaliers uniform should be must-see TV for pretty much any basketball fan. Even if the Cavs needs a few games to sort things out after overhauling their roster and bringing in a new coach over the summer, there's going to be a special feeling in the air at Quicken Loans Arena on Thursday night. You won't want to miss it.
TV: TNT
More on these games: Posting and Toasting | Fear the Sword
The side dish
Dallas is one of the most intriguing contenders in the Western Conference and Utah boasts a talented core of young talent. Derrick Favors, Trey Burke, Dante Exum and company probably won't be able to top a loaded Mavericks team, especially on the offensive end, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't tune in. The last time the Jazz beat Dallas was Jan. 7, 2013, so it would be quite the upset, too.
TV: NBA League Pass
More on these games: SLC Dunk | Mavs Moneyball
The dessert
Thunder vs. Clippers, 10:30 p.m. ET
Los Angeles makes its season debut by hosting a Thunder team playing its second game in two days. Despite a brilliant performance from Russell Westbrook, who recorded 38 points in just 33 minutes on Wednesday, Oklahoma City lost its opener to Portland by 17 points. It's become clear the Thunder can't afford to rest Westbrook as long as Kevin Durant is out, so we'll have to keep a close eye on the matchup against Chris Paul.
TV: TNT
More on these games: Welcome to Loud City | Clips Nation
Everything else
All games on NBA League Pass. All times Eastern
7 p.m.: Wizards at Magic
8 p.m.: Pistons at Timberwolves
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