Dwight Howard in Purple and Gold: The Top 5 Must-Have Lakers Tickets

With the recent acquisition of Dwight Howard, it is no secret that the new Los Angeles Lakers squad is a force to be reckoned with.

Fielding a starting lineup of Steve Nash, Kobe Bryant, Howard, Metta World Peace, and Pau Gasol, the Lakers seem primed to be play at a level of basketball that the rest of NBA will have a hard time matching.

However, considering that it is in fact Los Angeles and the recent elevated star-power of this squad, ticket prices will probably go up in the following season.

Therefore, for dedicated fans out there, here are five games that you will definitely not want to miss at the Staples Center and should reserve tickets for in the upcoming season.

Los Angeles Clippers, November 2nd

With the Clippers’ rise to relevance after years of living in the Lakers’ shadow, the Staples Center battle is always intense. With fans going back forth from both sides, the beginning of an intense rivalry is just beginning.

The matchups across the court are incredible: Chris Paul taking on Steve Nash, the blocking machine of DeAndre Jordan posts up against Dwight Howard, Blake Griffin driving against Pau Gasol. This game is not one to miss.

Orlando Magic, December 2nd

For the first time since joining the purple and gold, Howard will face the Orlando Magic. Without the presence of their All-Star center, the Magic will not be of the same caliber as they have been in past years.

Either way, considering the bad blood between Howard and the Magic organization, Orlando will be looking to upset the powerhouse Lakers at home.

Miami Heat, January 17th

Whenever the Lakers face off against the Big Three of South Beach, it is a must-watch game. Now with the upgraded Lakers squad and the addition of Ray Allen to the current NBA championships, the matchup could not be better.

When Miami comes to Los Angeles, it might just be a prequel to the upcoming NBA Finals.

Oklahoma City Thunder, January 29th

Knocking the Lakers out of the playoffs last season, the Thunder are arguably one of the most exciting teams to watch in basketball. With Olympians Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden, their offense is fierce and quick on the counterattack.

The matchup with the Lakers will put the two best teams in the Western Conference on the court. These two squads could very well see each other again in the Western Conference Finals.

Boston Celtics, February 20th

It is no secret that the Celtics-Lakers rivalry has history. From the days of Bird and Johnson, the two squads always promise an incredible game.

The Celtics, now led by point guard Rajon Rondo and the aging Kevin Garnett, will always have the potential for miraculous upsets, especially against the Lakers. This game is sure to be a thriller.