NBA Schedule 2017-18: 5 games with the most revenge potential

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 06: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder looks on against the Indiana Pacers during the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on February 6, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pacers defeated the Thunder 93-90. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – FEBRUARY 18: James Harden #13 of the Houston Rockets talks with Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during practice for the 2017 NBA All-Star Game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 18, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Dec. 25: Houston Rockets @ Oklahoma City Thunder

The MVP race last year consumed the NBA — at least until everyone forgot about it because the playoffs happened. Russell Westbrook was a triple-doubling force of nature, assaulting the record book and doing something historical. James Harden was doing his work as well — all for a winning team too. Eventually, Harden and the Houston Rockets defeated Westbrook and the Thunder.

The debate between the two continued. And then continued into the summer.

Rockets general manager Daryl Morey continued to push his player for MVP long after Westbrook got the award. the statistical savant claimed Harden had a more positive statistical impact and for a better team. That is a fair argument. Westbrook also averaged a triple-double.

The bottom line was both players were worthy of the award — as were Kawhi Leonard and LeBron James in a loaded field. Last year’s MVP race was as competitive as any we have seen.

Certainly, losing hurts. James Harden is a competitor — despite the lingering taste of his no-show in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs. So it is fair to expect Harden to come out wanting to prove something in this Christmas Day matchup.

Westbrook is always trying to prove something too. He could look to use this game to confirm his MVP bona fides. Plus it’s big nationally televised game on Christmas; Westbrook is sure to want to show out.

The two former teammates are certainly willing to engage in a friendly rivalry. Considering the battle they had last year, the two are probably going to make it worth the watch.

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