The Boston Celtics begin their NBA championship defense with a showdown against the New York Knicks in the opening game of the 2024-25 regular season at TD Garden on Tuesday.
Boston enters this season with plenty of momentum, finishing 4-1 in the preseason and averaging 121.8 points per game, the second-highest in the league.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks are looking to build on a positive 2023-24 campaign where they finished second in the Eastern Conference with a 50-32 record, just behind the Celtics.
The Knicks’ think tank retooled in the offseason with the aim of capturing their first title since 1973. Jalen Brunson, and Karl-Anthony Towns will be key in steering their offense as they begin new season.
Ahead of the opening game, let’s take a look at the betting odds, prediction and picks.
Provided by ESPN Bet
Also Read: Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks: Injuries and likely starting lineups
It will be a special night at the TD Garden as Boston Celtics will celebrate their 18th championship banner before the game. Joe Mazzulla is going start with his strongest lineup, which includes Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, Derrick White and Al Horford.
While Knicks have assembled a title challenging team, it will not be easy for them to challenge the defending champions at their den. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns’s partnership will take time to flourish and therefore the Knicks are likely to kickstart their season with a defeat.
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