Contrasting matchups headline this week’s NBA motion on Disney+ in the Philippines, with the Boston Celtics trying to strengthen their grip on the East in opposition to a struggling Golden State Warriors.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers intention to separate themselves from the crowded center of the West as they take on fellow playoff contender Houston Rockets.
Here’s why each video games are must-watch viewing stay on Disney+.
Tatum will get straight again into the groove (March 19, 7 a.m. PHT: Warriors vs. Celtics)
Coming off a ten-month layoff, some rust was anticipated from Jayson Tatum — however his early run suggests in any other case.
He has rapidly settled again into rhythm, giving the Celtics a gentle two-way presence that might in the end form their push again into title rivalry.
Through 5 video games, Tatum has delivered 20.0 factors, 8.2 rebounds and 4.4 assists per outing. The effectivity hasn’t absolutely caught up but (50.9 TS%, 27.1% from deep), however the affect is evident.
He’s lively on each ends, and Boston has thrived with him on the ground, posting a +14.7 web score throughout his 146 minutes — an early signal of how worthwhile he’s to their general construction.
Facing a Warriors squad lacking Stephen Curry, this matchup provides Tatum one other runway to construct momentum. Alongside Jaylen Brown, that is the place the Celtics can begin sharpening the core that may carry their hopes for a deep postseason run.
Dončić has been on a tear (March 19, 9:30 a.m. PHT: Lakers vs. Rockets)
The Lakers have surged to the high of the league in March, posting an 8-1 file whereas proudly owning the third-best web score in that span at +10.0.
At the middle of that run is Luka Dončić, whose all-around brilliance has powered the Lakers offense and elevated their late-season push.
Dončić has been in full management, orchestrating the Lakers’ assault with a mix of scoring and playmaking that bends defenses each possession. This month, the six-time All-Star is placing up 34.0 factors, 7.2 rebounds and 9.1 assists on an elite 62.1 TS%.
Whether it is breaking down defenders in isolation, manipulating pick-and-roll coverages or creating open appears for teammates, he has dictated tempo and constantly put defenses in rotation.
As the Lakers push to safe homecourt benefit in the first spherical, one other win over the Rockets this week would create worthwhile separation in the standings.
Expect Dončić to keep driving the offense, with sturdy assist from Austin Reaves and LeBron James, as they take on a Rockets squad led by Kevin Durant.
