Celtics schedule analysis: Month-by-month breakdown of key storylines

Celtics schedule analysis: Month-by-month breakdown of key storylines originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

For the first time in 16 years, the Boston Celtics enter the season with a Larry O’Brien Trophy-sized target on their backs.

The NBA released its full 2024-25 schedule Thursday, giving fans an advance look at all 82 regular-season games and teams a concrete look at what’s coming from October to April.

For the Celtics, the marquee matchups start right away — they raise their 2024 championship banner to the rafters on Oct. 22 ahead of their regular-season opener against the New York Knicks at TD Garden.

Expectations will be sky-high throughout the season for a Celtics team that returns its entire core from the 2023-24 title squad. While big man Kristaps Porzingis is expected to be sidelined until at least Christmas, Boston boasts a formidable starting five of Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum and Al Horford that makes this team the odds-on favorite to repeat as champions.

No team has won back-to-back titles since 2018, however, and the Celtics’ opponents will be loading up to ensure that streak continues. That means it should be a highly-entertaining season for the defending champs in their quest for Banner 19.

So, which games should C’s fans circle on their calendars, and what are key storylines to watch throughout the season? Here are the top highlights from each month of the Celtics’ 2024-25 schedule.

October: East rivalries renewed

Celtics 2024-25 schedule for October

After receiving their championship rings on Opening Night, the Celtics will get the NBA’s first look at the revamped Knicks, who added Mikal Bridges to their Villanova trio of Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo this offseason.

This month also closes out with a home matchup against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks and an Eastern Conference Finals rematch with the Indiana Pacers. Add in a visit to Memphis to see old friend Marcus Smart, and this is an entertaining two-week stretch.

November: The Steve Kerr Revenge Game

Celtics 2024-25 schedule for November

Circle November 6 on your calendars,…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/celtics-schedule-analysis-month-month-192946413.html

Author : NBC Sports Boston

Publish date : 2024-08-15 19:38:17

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