The highly anticipated 2024-25 NBA season kicks off on 22 October with a classic rivalry matchup between the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics. This opening game will not only set the tone for the season but also feature the Knicks’ newest addition, Mikal Bridges, (pictured above) as they attempt to spoil the Celtics’ championship ring celebration in Boston.
The NBA revealed its full schedule last week, highlighting the Knicks-Celtics game as the season opener. Following this exciting matchup, Olympic teammates LeBron James and Anthony Edwards will face off when the Los Angeles Lakers host the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Last season, the Knicks finished second in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Celtics by 14 games. However, their postseason run was marred by injuries, leading to a loss in the conference semi-finals to the Indiana Pacers, who were subsequently swept by the Celtics in the conference finals. In a bold move to close the gap with the reigning champions, the Knicks executed their first trade with the Brooklyn Nets since 1983, acquiring Mikal Bridges in exchange for five first-round draft picks, a first-round pick swap, and a second-round pick.
Season of high stakes
The Knicks are optimistic that Bridges, reuniting with former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo, will improve their chances of winning the Eastern Conference. The Celtics, who finished last season with the NBA’s best record (64-18) and clinched their 18th championship, are expected to defend their title.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards, aim to build on their success from last season, which saw them reach the Western Conference finals. The Lakers’ opener will also be a significant moment for rookie Bronny James, selected 55th overall out of USC, as he makes his NBA debut.
The excitement continues on the second night of the season with a marquee matchup between two Eastern Conference powerhouses. The Philadelphia 76ers, featuring their new big three of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, will take on the Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
On the West Coast, the Los Angeles Clippers will inaugurate their new state-of-the-art Intuit Dome with a game against the Phoenix Suns, featuring Olympians Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. This venue will also host a highly anticipated game two weeks later when Paul George returns to face his former team, the Clippers, after signing a four-year, $212 million deal with the 76ers.
Another major storyline this season is Klay Thompson’s move to the Dallas Mavericks. Thompson will debut alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving against the San Antonio Spurs and their rising star, Victor Wembanyama, on 24 October. Thompson’s return to Golden State on 12 November to face Stephen Curry and Draymond Green will undoubtedly be an emotional and highly watched event, as he seeks to prove his enduring prowess after contract negotiations with the Warriors fell through.
The 2024-25 NBA season promises to be filled with thrilling matchups as teams vie for supremacy on the court.
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