NBA Opening Night Previews – Tuesday, October 22nd, 2024
New York Knicks (+6.0) at Boston Celtics (-6.0)
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Venue: TD Garden, Boston, MA
Total: 222.5 (o -110, u -110)
The New York Knicks begin the 2024-25 season with a fresh lineup after significant offseason changes. Jalen Brunson continues to lead the backcourt, but the additions of Mikal Bridges at shooting guard and Karl-Anthony Towns at center have given the Knicks a stronger presence both defensively and offensively. This revamped squad will look to improve on last season’s 50-32 record and be a bigger contender in the East. The Knicks are eager to show off their new-look roster, which also features OG Anunoby and Josh Hart in the starting lineup.
The Boston Celtics, fresh off a dominant 64-18 season, will look to defend their home court as early favorites. Led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and with Jrue Holiday running the point, Boston remains one of the most dangerous teams in the league. While Kristaps Porzingis will sit out due to injury, Al Horford steps in to anchor the frontcourt. Boston’s depth, especially on defense, will be key to starting the season on the right foot.
Key Stats:
- Knicks went 16-32 SU and 19-28-1 ATS on the road last season.
- Celtics were 37-4 SU at home in 2023-24 and finished 14-6-1 ATS in their last 20 games as favorites.
Prediction:
Celtics to win and cover (-6.0), total to go under 222.5.
Minnesota Timberwolves (-1.0) at Los Angeles Lakers (+1.0)
Time: 10:00 PM ET
Venue: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Total: 220.5 (o -110, u -110)
The Minnesota Timberwolves, coming off a 56-26 season, open their campaign with high hopes as Anthony Edwards continues to ascend into stardom. Alongside Mike Conley and Jaden McDaniels, Edwards will lead an athletic and physical Timberwolves team that looks to assert itself in the West. Rudy Gobert remains a force in the paint and will aim to control the glass against the Lakers.
The Los Angeles Lakers, while dealing with some key injuries (Christian Wood and Jarred Vanderbilt are out), will rely heavily on their dynamic duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The supporting cast, including Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, will need to step up for the Lakers to compete with the Timberwolves' defensive pressure. The Lakers finished 47-35 last season and remain dangerous at home despite injury setbacks.
Key Stats:
- Timberwolves are 6-4 ATS in their last 10 matchups against the Lakers.
- The Lakers are 17-5 SU when played as Home Team Coming off a 1 Away Stand Last 5 Years.
Prediction:
Timberwolves to win (-1.0), total to go under 220.5.
These opening night games set the stage for an exciting season as the Knicks look to prove their revamped roster’s worth in Boston, while the Timberwolves and Lakers battle in a Western Conference showdown.
