The defending NBA champions, the Boston Celtics, are set to host the New York Knicks at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, on October 22 for the first game of the 2024-25 regular season.
Last season, the Celtics dominated the league with an impressive 64 wins, ultimately securing their 18th title in franchise history. Jaylen Brown earned the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award, highlighting his pivotal role in the team's success.
The Knicks finished the previous regular season with 50 wins, placing them second in the Eastern Conference. They advanced past the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the playoffs but were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern semifinals.
In a strategic move, Knicks' star Jalen Brunson accepted a pay cut to sign a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension. This decision provided the team with the salary flexibility to acquire Mikal Bridges and retain key players OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson, positioning the Knicks as strong contenders in the East.
Opening day will also feature an exciting matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. The Lakers, who were ousted by the Denver Nuggets in last season's Western Conference first-round playoffs, will look to rebound as LeBron James and Anthony Davis lead their team.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, who advanced to the Western Finals before falling to the Mavericks, will reunite with Rudy Gobert to challenge the Lakers. Additionally, Anthony Edwards recently won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, further adding to his growing accolades.
Reference(s):
Reigning NBA champions Celtics to host Knicks in 2024-25 season opener
cgtn.com
