Celtics vs. Knicks Score, Live Updates: NBA Season Opens as Reigning Champions Start Hot vs. New-Look New York
The highly anticipated 2024-2025 NBA season opener between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks is underway, and the reigning Eastern Conference champions, the Celtics, are off to a strong start against a revamped Knicks squad. This matchup sets the tone for an exciting season, with both teams boasting new additions and a lot of expectations from their fan bases.
First Half Recap: Celtics Set the Pace
The Celtics, led by their dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, came out firing in the first quarter. Tatum quickly found his rhythm, sinking several jumpers while Brown attacked the rim with confidence. The team’s new addition, All-Star big man Kristaps Porziņģis, also made his presence felt with a few key blocks and three-point shooting, stretching the Knicks’ defense.
For the Knicks, it was clear they were adjusting to some changes, including the addition of new players like Donte DiVincenzo, who joined his former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. Despite some early struggles, Brunson’s leadership kept New York within striking distance, and Julius Randle started heating up with some timely mid-range shots.
Key Plays
- Jayson Tatum’s Dominance: Tatum showed why he’s considered one of the league’s top MVP candidates, effortlessly scoring from all parts of the court. His ability to drive, post up, and shoot from deep kept the Knicks guessing throughout the first half.
- Kristaps Porziņģis Against His Former Team: Porziņģis, facing the Knicks, showcased his versatility by blocking shots and knocking down threes. The Knicks struggled to find answers for his length and shooting, especially when paired with the athleticism of the Celtics’ wings.
- Julius Randle’s Resilience: Though the Knicks fell behind early, Randle fought back with tough interior play, putting up strong numbers to keep his team in the game. He found his groove as the half progressed, attacking mismatches and grabbing key rebounds.
Second Half Expectations
As the second half approaches, the Knicks will need to tighten up defensively if they hope to slow down the Celtics’ high-powered offense. Look for coach Tom Thibodeau to make adjustments, potentially focusing on limiting Tatum’s isolation plays and closing out more aggressively on Porziņģis beyond the arc.
On the Celtics’ side, coach Joe Mazzulla will aim to maintain the tempo and get more production from key role players like Derrick White and Al Horford. If the Celtics can continue hitting their shots from distance while controlling the paint, they’ll be hard to stop.
Live Score Update
- Boston Celtics: 119
- New York Knicks: 91
Stay tuned for more live updates as the game progresses, and keep an eye on standout performances from both teams. The Celtics are looking to assert their dominance early in the season, while the Knicks are eager to showcase their new-look roster and prove they can contend in the East.
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