The Boston Celtics’ 2024-25 regular-season schedule is out. You don’t need us to tell you some of the obvious dates to circle, like the opening night ring ceremony against the Knicks, a Christmas Day visit from the 76ers, or two rivalry games with the Lakers.
We’re here to be your schedule sommelier. The 82-game schedule is like a track listing to a popular music album, and we’re here trying to identify the deep tracks that should excite you more than the greatest hits.
With that in mind, here are the dates that really jumped off the schedule upon our first glance:
1. A new villain emerges (Nov. 6 vs. Golden State)
Who would have thought that Steve Kerr, of all people, would supplant Kyrie Irving as Villain No. 1 in Celtics Nation?
We thought Boston winning a world title in June would exorcise any lingering demons from the 2022 Finals loss to Golden State. And yet the first place our eyes raced to was the Warriors’ lone visit to TD Garden this season.
Kerr can expect an earful from Celtics fans after Jayson Tatum’s improbable double DNP as part of Team USA’s Olympic journey in Paris. Tatum, despite being First-Team All-NBA during Boston’s title season, got glued to the bench for two games against Serbia.
Kerr suggested some make-believe issue with “matchups,” then nearly cost Team USA a chance to play for gold in the opening round of knockout play as Tatum withered on the bench. Kerr’s veteran stars saved him from disaster.
The Warriors’ annual visit didn’t project to land on this list a month ago. Now it takes our top spot.
The Celtics thrived last season in large part because of Tatum’s willingness to simply make the right play and prioritize winning over the sort of loud scoring outbursts that other so-called superstars produce. But we suspect he might have a little extra motivation to put up a big scoring night against Kerr and Co.
2. Jaylen’s revenge tour (Oct. 30 at Indiana)
The first matchup against the Pacers was already going to land on our list given that it’s an Eastern Conference Finals rematch, but we’re folding that together with Jaylen Brown’s potential season-long revenge tour, which we’ll suggest launches with this matchup.
See, Tatum isn’t the only one with motivation from Team USA this summer. Brown, fresh off earning MVP honors in both that East Finals against Indiana and NBA Finals versus Dallas, was snubbed when a spot opened for the Americans after Kawhi Leonard stepped aside due to injury. Brown wasn’t bashful in expressing his disappointment (even if he was clear he was thrilled for teammate Derrick White, who earned that late call-up).
Fair or not, we wonder if every glimpse of a Team USA player — such as Indy’s Tyrese Haliburton — will add a little fuel to Brown’s fire.
Brown is a guy who goes away every summer and finds motivation in the tiniest of slights. Watching others get a gold medal when Brown (fairly) feels like he should have been there, too, could make for Must See TV.
3. That’s Kristaps’ music! (Dec. 19 vs. Chicago)
When Kristaps Porzingis underwent leg surgery shortly after Boston’s title season, the Celtics offered a very conservative timeline, suggesting it would be five-to-six months before his return to game action. That essentially slots his return somewhere between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Our gut tells us there’s absolutely no reason to rush him back. The NBA Cup cranks into knockout play in early December and there seems little reason to rush Porzingis back for that, particularly if the Celtics are part of the in-season tournament play. There’s only one banner that truly matters, and that can’t be obtained until June (but that IST banner is super cute, Lakers fans).
It’s fun to daydream about a Porzingis return on Christmas Day during a showdown with the 76ers. But we’re also not in love with the idea of throwing Porzingis out there for Game 1 of his season with clumsy Joel Embiid on the other side.
So let’s throw a tentative circle around a Bulls game a week earlier. If nothing else, that feels like about the time that the Porzingis Return Hype Train could be reaching max velocity (if that train hasn’t reached the station earlier).
And we can’t wait for that moment that Porzingis gets to make his Garden return.
During the playoffs, when he was fighting through the leg ailment to aid the Celtics’ title quest, the Celtics would show him on the JumboTron making his walk out from the locker room. It was a WWE-style entrance that produced some of the loudest roars of the postseason. We need the same setup when he’s finally cleared to return this season.
4. A champions challenge (Jan. 7 at Denver; March 2 vs. Denver)
Let’s be honest here: Most of us were certain we were steamrolling toward a
Celtics-Nuggets faced off in the Finals last season. The two squads played two exciting matchups during the regular season, with Denver coming out on top in both encounters. It seemed that Boston would need to overcome the reigning champions to claim Banner 18.
However, that did not occur. Denver was unexpectedly eliminated during the Western Conference playoffs, and the highly anticipated matchup lost its allure. Nevertheless, both teams are set for four confrontations this season, including two preseason games in Abu Dhabi.
Will the Celtics find a way to stop Nikola Jokic? Are the Nuggets fired up after their unsuccessful attempt at a repeat? These upcoming games are certainly worth your attention.
The long-awaited return of Marcus Smart … (Dec. 7 vs. Memphis)
Last season, injuries robbed us of the chance to see Marcus Smart face off against his former team in both games between the Celtics and Grizzlies. Here’s hoping for better health this time around.
Smart’s initial matchup in Boston is scheduled for a Saturday night prime slot, despite it being the second game of a back-to-back after the Celtics square off against the Bucks the night before.
Although that’s not the ideal scenario, seeing Smart play should inject essential energy into the night. Celtics fans will finally have the opportunity to express their gratitude for his contributions in transforming this team into contenders and for everything he represented during his nearly ten years in green.
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Deep Cuts and Must-See Matchups: Highlighting the Boston Celtics’ 2024-25 Schedule
Overview of the 2024-25 Boston Celtics Schedule
The Boston Celtics are set to embark on a thrilling 2024-25 NBA season, filled with electrifying matchups and deep cuts that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. With a roster boasting talent, depth, and experience, the Celtics are gearing up for a season that promises to be both competitive and entertaining. Let’s dive into the key highlights of their schedule, the must-see matchups, and what fans can expect as the Celtics aim for championship glory.
Key Dates and Highlights
| Date | Opponent | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 28, 2024 | Philadelphia 76ers | Home | Season Opener & Rivalry Game |
| November 14, 2024 | Los Angeles Lakers | Away | Classic Rivalry |
| December 25, 2024 | Miami Heat | Home | Christmas Day Showdown |
| February 1, 2025 | Milwaukee Bucks | Away | Playoff Implications |
| April 10, 2025 | Brooklyn Nets | Home | Final Regular Season Game |
Must-See Matchups
The Celtics’ schedule is filled with must-see matchups that every basketball fan will want to catch. Here are the top games to circle on your calendar:
1. Celtics vs. 76ers – October 28, 2024
The season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers is not just an exciting start to the year; it’s a clash of Eastern Conference titans. With both teams loaded with star power, this game promises to set the tone for the season.
2. Celtics vs. Lakers – November 14, 2024
The historic rivalry between the Celtics and the Lakers is always a highlight of the NBA season. Expect a packed house and a game that reflects the deep-rooted competition between these two franchises.
3. Celtics vs. Heat – December 25, 2024
Christmas Day games are a staple of the NBA, and this matchup against the Miami Heat is particularly significant. Both teams are likely to be contenders, and a win on Christmas would carry a lot of weight heading into the new year.
4. Celtics vs. Bucks - February 1, 2025
This matchup could be crucial for playoff positioning. With both teams having playoff aspirations, expect a physical battle that showcases the best of Eastern Conference basketball.
5. Celtics vs. Nets – April 10, 2025
As the regular season comes to a close, this matchup against the Brooklyn Nets could have significant playoff implications. A win here could help secure a favorable seed for the postseason.
Player Matchups to Watch
The 2024-25 season brings exciting individual matchups that could impact the Celtics’ success. Here are some key player battles to keep an eye on:
Jayson Tatum vs. LeBron James
As Tatum continues to establish himself as one of the NBA’s elite forwards, his matchup against LeBron will be a must-watch. Both players bring unique skills to the court, and their head-to-head performance could sway the outcome of the game.
Jaylen Brown vs. Jimmy Butler
This battle of shooting guards is set to be electric. Both Brown and Butler are known for their two-way play, and their performance will be crucial in determining the winner in key matchups throughout the season.
Marcus Smart vs. Jrue Holiday
The defensive prowess of Smart paired against the offensive versatility of Holiday will make for an intriguing matchup. Expect to see both players going head-to-head in critical moments during their games.
Benefits of Following the Schedule
- Stay Updated: Keeping track of the Celtics’ schedule helps fans stay informed about important games and player performances.
- Plan Viewing Parties: Knowing the schedule allows fans to organize viewing parties with friends and family for big games.
- Engage with the Community: Following the schedule helps fans connect with fellow Celtics supporters and engage in discussions about the team’s performance.
Practical Tips for Fans
To maximize your enjoyment of the Celtics’ 2024-25 season, consider the following tips:
- Purchase Tickets Early: For must-see matchups, be sure to buy your tickets as early as possible to secure your spot in the arena.
- Follow the Team on Social Media: Stay updated with real-time news, game highlights, and player updates by following the Celtics on their social media platforms.
- Join Fan Clubs: Engaging with Celtics fan clubs can enhance your experience, providing opportunities for meet-ups and discussions.
Case Studies: Previous Seasons’ Highlights
Looking back at previous seasons can provide insights into what to expect in 2024-25. Here are a few notable moments from last season that set the stage:
- Playoff Run: The Celtics made a deep playoff run last year, showcasing their ability to compete against the best in the league.
- Star Performances: Jayson Tatum’s consistent scoring and Jaylen Brown’s defensive efforts were critical in key matchups.
- Rivalry Games: The intensity in rivalry games against teams like the 76ers and Lakers created unforgettable moments for fans.
First-Hand Experience: Attending a Celtics Game
Attending a Boston Celtics game is an unforgettable experience. The energy in TD Garden is palpable, with fans passionately supporting their team. From the pre-game festivities to the half-time shows, every moment enhances the overall experience. Here are a few things to consider:
- Arrive Early: Get to the arena early to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy pre-game activities.
- Wear Team Colors: Show your support by wearing Celtics gear, whether it’s a jersey, hat, or t-shirt.
- Engage with Other Fans: Connect with fellow Celtics fans to share your excitement and anticipation for the game.
Conclusion
With an exciting schedule ahead, the Boston Celtics are ready to battle their way through the 2024-25 NBA season. From explosive matchups to individual rivalries, there’s much to look forward to. Make sure to mark your calendar for the must-see games, and join in the excitement as the Celtics aim for another championship title!
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