The Celtics, NBA title holders, started their season in style by sharply correcting the Knicks 132-109. Led by a great Jayson Tatum, the Celtics remind us that they are the big favorites to retain their crown. But be careful not to bury New York and its new recruit too quickly…
The Boston Celtics, reigning NBA champions, did not miss their debut. They inflicted a masterful correction on the New York Knicks (132-109) during the opening match of the 2024-2025 season at home. An XXL performance which reminds everyone that the C’s are indeed the overwhelming favorites to retain their crown.
Under the leadership of a gala Tatum
Obviously, the championship ring ceremony and the unveiling of the 18th Celtics banner did not weigh down the legs of Joe Mazzulla’s men. Led by a great Jayson Tatum (37 points, 10 assists), Boston played its basketball. Tatum enjoyed himself behind the arc with a delicious 8/11 3-pointer. The C’s also tied the NBA record for successful shots in a game (29). Enough to knock out the suffocated Knicks in the first quarter (43-26).
But Boston’s strength is its collective. Alongside Tatum, Jaylen BrownMVP of the last Finals, compiled 23 points. Derrick White (24 pts) and Jrue Holiday (18 pts) also contributed greatly. Difficult for New York to resist such a steamroller in a molten TD Garden.
Shy start for Karl-Anthony Towns
On the Knicks side, this inaugural defeat should not make us forget their ambitions. After their elimination in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals last season against the Pacers, they want to take a step forward. For this, they relied on Karl-Anthony Townslanded from Wolves. But for its debut under its new colors, “KAT” remained discreet (12 pts). Faced with the iron defense of the C’s, he had difficulty making his impact.
New York will need a lot more from its new star to play spoilsport in the East. Just as it will be necessary to increase the power of Jalen Brunson et Miles McBrideNew York’s top scorers of the evening with 22 points each. Necessary adjustments to hope to compete with the Celtics who have already taken off.
Boston sends a message
More than a victory, this success for Boston looks like a demonstration of force. A message sent to the competition: the Celtics are ready to fight to keep their throne. With a stable workforce, carried by a Tatum – Brown duo that remains as formidable as ever, Boston already has the fangs. The path to a record 18th title promises to be strewn with pitfalls, facing fierce competition embodied by the Bucks, the Sixers and even the Suns. But the C’s seem cut out for very high-level challenges.
We know we have a target on our back. Everyone is going to want to take us down. But we are ready, we are armed for that. Tonight, we showed that we are still hungry.
– Jayson Tatum after the meeting
Hungry and already in the rhythm, the Celtics. Enough to consider the future with ambition and determination. Even if the road is still long, Boston seems to be in pole position in the title race. It is now up to the Knicks and other contenders to find a solution so as not to let the men in Green escape. But one thing is certain: these Celtics version 2024-25 promise to offer us more great basketball moments!
