New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics: how to watch live, probable lineups, and game details for the NBA 2024-25 season opener
The 2024-25 NBA season kicks off this Tuesday, October 22, with an exciting rivalry game between the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics. This highly anticipated matchup marks the season opener for both teams, with the game taking place at TD Garden, the Celtics’ home arena. Fans can tune in to catch all the action live starting at 7:30 PM ET.
Where to watch live?
Basketball fans can watch this thrilling game on cable TV and streaming services that have broadcasting rights for the NBA. The game will air on TNT, a channel well-known for covering major sporting events, including NBA season openers. Additionally, select streaming platforms offering sports packages will also stream the game live for subscribers.
Probable lineups
Both teams enter the game with a mix of established stars and new additions. The New York Knicks, looking for a strong season, will debut Karl-Anthony Towns as their new starting center following significant offseason trades. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics, reigning NBA champions, will field their top stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, bolstered by the acquisition of Jrue Holiday.
Here are the likely lineups for the game:
New York Knicks:
- Point Guard (PG): Jalen Brunson
- Shooting Guard (SG): Mikal Bridges
- Small Forward (SF): Josh Hart
- Power Forward (PF): OG Anunoby
- Center (C): Karl-Anthony Towns
Boston Celtics:
- Point Guard (PG): Jrue Holiday
- Shooting Guard (SG): Derrick White
- Small Forward (SF): Jaylen Brown
- Power Forward (PF): Jayson Tatum
- Center (C): Al Horford
What to expect from this game
This game is highly anticipated not just for the rivalry between the Knicks and Celtics but also due to the offseason moves both teams made. The Knicks, who fell short of expectations last season, are looking to take a step forward with the arrival of Towns, who adds versatility and firepower in the paint. Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges will continue to be the backbone of this team as they seek to make their mark in the Eastern Conference.
The Boston Celtics, on the other hand, are riding high after winning the championship last season, led by the duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. This pair was pivotal in securing the title, and they’ll look to maintain their dominance, especially in front of their home crowd at TD Garden, where the team will raise its 18th championship banner.
Key factors for the game
- Karl-Anthony Towns vs Al Horford: Towns’ presence could be the difference-maker the Knicks need to contend with the top teams in the East. His offensive prowess will be tested against Al Horford, a veteran still crucial to Boston’s defense.
- Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown: The Celtics’ dynamic duo is the key focus for Boston’s offense. Tatum, last season’s Finals MVP, brings a versatile game with three-point shooting, driving ability, and transition scoring. Brown complements him with physicality and technical skill.
- Jalen Brunson vs Jrue Holiday: The battle of the point guards will be vital in dictating the pace of the game. Brunson, known for his leadership and playmaking ability, will face Jrue Holiday, one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders.
- Knicks’ defense: With defenders like OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, the Knicks have a formidable perimeter defense capable of pressuring Boston’s top scorers. Anunoby will be critical in slowing down Jayson Tatum, while Hart will focus on limiting Jaylen Brown’s production.
Injuries and absences
Heading into tonight’s game, the Knicks will be without Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa, both out due to injuries. Robinson’s absence, known for his shot-blocking and rim protection, will be a challenge for the Knicks’ frontcourt, putting extra pressure on Towns. The Celtics, meanwhile, will miss Kristaps Porzingis, sidelined with a foot injury, which weakens Boston’s frontcourt depth.
Preseason performances
Both teams have performed well during the preseason. The Knicks wrapped up their preseason campaign with a narrow victory against the Washington Wizards and showed solid results against teams like the Charlotte Hornets and Minnesota Timberwolves. Karl-Anthony Towns, a new addition to the team, had strong performances and seems to be meshing well with his teammates.
The Celtics also delivered impressive preseason results, including decisive wins over the Denver Nuggets and Philadelphia 76ers. However, a loss to the Toronto Raptors in one of their final games highlighted some defensive adjustments they need to make as they head into the regular season.
Recap of Knicks vs Celtics last season
- First meeting: The Celtics secured a close win over the Knicks in January, led by a dominant performance from Jayson Tatum.
- Second game: In February, the Knicks struck back with a home victory, with Jalen Brunson playing a starring role.
- Playoffs: The Knicks did not face the Celtics in last season’s playoffs, as they were eliminated earlier. Meanwhile, Boston advanced to win the NBA title.
Expectations for the 2024-25 season
For the Knicks, this season is an opportunity to re-establish themselves as a contender in the Eastern Conference, especially with the additions of Towns and Anunoby. Consistency, particularly in games against direct rivals like the Celtics, will be key. For the Boston Celtics, with their championship core intact and reinforced, they are aiming for back-to-back titles and will look to make a statement with a strong opening-night win in front of their home crowd.
