Los Angeles Lakers VS Dallas Mavericks

The Lakers’ first season game will be on Oct. 30 against the Dallas Mavericks. New additions to the Lakers’ roster include six-time all-star Dwight Howard, two-time MVP Steve Nash and versatile sixth-man Antawn Jamison. The Maverick’s off-season acquisitions of veteran all-stars Elton Brand and Chris Kaman, along with promising younger players Darren Collison and O.J. Mayo will ensure a challenging season opener, especially because Howard is recovering from back surgery. This game will be a good indicator of the roles these players will fill on their new teams.

New England Patriots VS New York Jets

On Oct. 29 the New England Patriots will take on the New York Jets. The Jets’ off-season trade for backup quarterback Tim Tebow has greatly changed the dynamic of the team because quarterback Mark Sanchez is now splitting playing time. Sanchez, who is often criticized for his lack of leadership and occasional lackluster performance on the field, will face a challenge when playing the Patriots, led by superstars Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. The Patriots, coming off a division championship, will look to beat the Jets, who represent a possible playoff opponent down the line.