The NBA schedule was finally released the other day and it’s just another reminder that basketball will soon be back. So as a writer for the Celtics, I’m pretty sure it’s my duty to do a list on my most anticipated games of the year. So, here’s my list.
Honorable Mentions
1/5/18 vs. Timberwolves- This one probably isn’t on a lot of other peoples’ list but I’m fascinated by this matchup. The Timberwolves are a juggernaut on the rise and they are led by former Celtic coach Tom Thibodeau. The Celtics and the Wolves are the future on the NBA and that reign is coming soon.
3/28/18 at Jazz- This one is going to be the most anticipated game for Utah obviously, but not as much for Boston. Never the less, it will still be fascinating to see Gordon Hayward return to Utah and how that crowd reacts.
10/20/17 vs. 76ers- In only the 3rd game of the year, the Celtics will have a matchup division rival Philadelphia. But what really makes this game intriguing is facing off against number one overall pick Markelle Fultz. He and Celtic’s rookie Jayson Tatum will be linked together forever and that starts here.
Games 5-1
10/18/17 vs. Bucks- The home opener will always be one of the most anticipated games of the year. This year is no exception as they take on superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.
1/27/18 at Warriors- With the signing of Gordon Hayward, many people believe the Celtics are headed to the NBA Finals. There, they are likely to meet the defending champion Golden State Warriors. But before that, they meet in January in California where the Celtics have won there two years in a row. No other team in the entire NBA has done that.
12/25/17 vs. Wizards- Christmas Day is the premier day of the NBA season and the Celtics will be part of it once again. This time, they will be at home. This is the first time they will be at home for Christmas, EVER. Not only that, it will include a Morris twin battle with playoff rival; the Washington Wizards.
11/27/17 vs. Pistons- The Pistons and Celtics haven’t had a rivalry for years now and probably won’t for a while. But the reason this game is so high on my list is for this man, Avery Bradley. Bradley was one of the most beloved Celtics of the 21st Century and will make his return here. He’ll get cheered like crazy and deservedly so.
10/17/17 at Cavaliers- Opening night; there’s nothing like it. Not only are the Celtics going to be playing the first game of the 2017-2018, they’re facing off against longtime rival LeBron James. This Eastern Conference Finals rematch will be the first measuring stick for the Celtics as they try to get back to the NBA Finals. But it’s the debut of rookie Jayson Tatum and free agent signing Gordon Hayward! No one is going to want to miss this game.
Written By: Steven Santoro (SVS_1993)