NBA Season Opener: Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks Preview and Betting Tips

As the anticipation builds for the new NBA season, all eyes will be on TD Garden as the reigning champions, the Boston Celtics, host the New York Knicks in the first game of the 2024-2025 season. Scheduled for Wednesday at 12:30 AM BST, fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an electrifying matchup. In this article, we’ll delve into key team news, analyze the odds, and offer some betting predictions for this thrilling encounter.

Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks Betting Tips

Betting enthusiasts will want to pay close attention to the following tips as the season opener approaches:

• Handicap Betting: New York Knicks to win (+6) @ 9/10
• Home Team Total Points: Under 114.5 @ 10/11
• To Score 15+ Points: Mikal Bridges @ Evens

Note: All odds were sourced from Paddy Power and may be subject to change.

New York Knicks to Win with Handicap (+6)

While the Celtics have the advantage of playing at home and enter as the defending champions, the Knicks should not be underestimated this season. Last year, despite dealing with several injuries, the Knicks made it to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, showcasing their resilience and talent.

The Celtics will be without starting center Kristaps Porzingis due to injury, which could level the playing field. The Knicks, having made significant roster upgrades in the offseason, including the addition of All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns and versatile wing Mikal Bridges, are a serious threat. Though the Celtics are likely to emerge victorious, expect a tightly contested game.

Boston Celtics Under 114.5 Total Points

The Knicks ranked among the top defensive teams last season, allowing a mere 108.7 points per game. While stopping the potent Celtics offense is a daunting task, the Knicks’ defensive prowess may keep Boston’s scoring in check. Given the current roster dynamics and potential absence of Porzingis, my expectation is that the Celtics will struggle to surpass 114 points on their home floor.

Mikal Bridges to Score 15+ Points

Mikal Bridges, newly acquired by the Knicks, is a promising player who can make a significant impact on the scoreboard. With previous seasons averaging over 17 points per game, he has proven that he can be a reliable offensive contributor. While he may not be the primary focus of the offense alongside Towns and Jalen Brunson, his ability to find space and contribute consistently makes a bet on him scoring 15 or more points a worthwhile consideration for opening night.

Teams News: Celtics vs. Knicks

Boston Celtics

The Celtics maintained most of their championship-winning roster during the offseason, with the noteworthy addition of Lonnie Walker IV. Despite a nearly intact lineup, they will be without Kristaps Porzingis, which poses a challenge. They enter the season with momentum, going 4-1 in their preseason games, and despite the injury, their core of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White will be central to their offensive production.

Predicted Celtics Starting Lineup:

• Holiday
• White
• Brown
• Tatum
• Horford

New York Knicks

The Knicks made a splash during the offseason, trading for Karl-Anthony Towns and acquiring Mikal Bridges while retaining OG Anunoby, significantly upgrading their roster. While injuries to key players like Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa might stretch their depth, this newfound talent gives the Knicks a fighting chance—especially as they aim to build chemistry on opening night after a successful 4-1 preseason.

Predicted Knicks Starting Lineup:

• Brunson
• Hart
• Bridges
• Anunoby
• Towns

Conclusion

As the curtain rises on another thrilling NBA season, the Boston Celtics will aim to defend their title against a resurgent New York Knicks team hungry for success. With significant roster changes and injury impacts, fans can expect an engaging battle filled with intensity and strategy. Whether you’re in it for the love of the game or seeking to make some bets, this game is sure to deliver excitement right from the get-go.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for what promises to be an unforgettable opening night!