The Boston Celtics started their 2024-2025 NBA season with a bang, delivering an offensive masterclass and tying the NBA record for most 3-pointers in a game. The Celtics defeated the New York Knicks 132-109 in their season opener, hitting 29 shots from beyond the arc and sending a strong message to the rest of the league. Jayson Tatum led the charge with a stellar performance, scoring 37 points on 14-for-18 shooting, including 8-for-11 from 3-point range.
Celtics Tie NBA 3-Point Record
The Celtics came into their season opener with high expectations after raising their record-setting 18th NBA championship banner to the rafters. They did not disappoint, setting the tone early with their blistering 3-point shooting. By the end of the game, they had tied the NBA record for the most 3-pointers in a single game, matching the Milwaukee Bucks’ 29 makes. The Celtics shot an impressive 29-for-61 from beyond the arc.
Boston’s incredible shooting display was fueled by their fast-paced offense, ball movement, and precision shooting. Jayson Tatum, fresh off tweaking his jumper in the offseason, was nearly flawless, sinking 8 of his 11 3-point attempts and finishing with 37 points. The Celtics’ offensive explosion was backed by 33 assists compared to just three turnovers, highlighting their efficient and team-oriented style of play.
29 TRIPLES. TIED FOR AN NBA RECORD.
Watch every splash from the @celtics historic night! pic.twitter.com/tLzIhuDkx3
— NBA (@NBA) October 23, 2024
Despite their hot shooting for most of the game, the Celtics missed 13 consecutive 3-point attempts in the final eight minutes, falling short of breaking the record. Still, their 29 makes tied the record, and the performance was more than enough to secure a convincing win.
Jayson Tatum Leads the Way
Jayson Tatum’s performance was the highlight of the night. The Celtics star looked unstoppable, showcasing his improved shooting form and demonstrating why he’s one of the top players in the league. Tatum finished with 37 points on 14-for-18 shooting overall, including 8-for-11 from beyond the arc. His offensive versatility, combined with his ability to score from deep, made it difficult for the Knicks to find answers.
Tatum’s confidence was evident throughout the game, as he hit multiple shots off the dribble and in transition, capitalizing on New York’s defensive lapses. Tatum’s ability to draw attention from defenders opened up space for his teammates, allowing the Celtics to spread the floor and maintain their offensive rhythm.
Tatum’s incredible night was supported by teammates Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, and Al Horford, who all contributed to Boston’s record-tying performance. Brown added 22 points, and White knocked down several key 3-pointers to keep the Celtics’ offense rolling. Horford’s 3-pointer in the fourth quarter tied the NBA record with 29 makes, though the Celtics couldn’t connect on their final few attempts to break the record.
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Knicks Struggle to Keep Up
For the New York Knicks, the season opener served as a stark reminder of the challenges they face in trying to compete with the elite teams in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks, who made significant offseason moves by acquiring Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, struggled to keep up with the Celtics’ pace and 3-point barrage.
New York’s defensive rotations were slow, and they frequently allowed the Celtics to get open looks from beyond the arc. Boston capitalized, hitting 15 of their 3-pointers in half-court sets within the first 12 seconds of the shot clock, according to Second Spectrum tracking data. The Knicks’ inability to contain the Celtics in transition further added to their defensive woes.
Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, making their Knicks debuts, had a difficult time adjusting to the Celtics’ pace. Towns finished with 12 points and 7 rebounds in 23 minutes, while Bridges had a relatively quiet performance. Jalen Brunson, one of New York’s more consistent players, led the Knicks with 22 points, but it wasn’t enough to keep the game competitive.
Celtics’ Defense and Ball Movement Shine
While the Celtics’ 3-point shooting grabbed headlines, their defense and ball movement were equally impressive. Boston’s ability to spread the ball around and create open looks was a testament to their disciplined play under head coach Joe Mazzulla. Their 33 assists and only three turnovers reflected the team’s focus on ball security and unselfish play.
On the defensive end, the Celtics held the Knicks to just 109 points and limited New York’s offensive options. Their ability to rotate and contest shots kept the Knicks from getting into any offensive rhythm, and their fast breaks off defensive rebounds allowed them to dominate the pace of the game.
The Celtics’ depth also played a key role, with players like Rui Hachimura stepping up to contribute. Hachimura added 18 points off the bench, giving the Celtics additional scoring options beyond their starting five.
What’s Next for the Knicks?
For the New York Knicks, this opening night blowout loss highlights the work they need to do, especially on the defensive end. Head coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged that the team must improve its defensive effort if they hope to compete in the Eastern Conference this season. “We need to play better defense. We can talk about offense all day, but we need to tighten things up on the defensive end,” said Thibodeau after the game.
Towns and Bridges, while talented additions to the Knicks roster, will need time to adjust to their new roles, and the team as a whole will need to develop better chemistry. The Knicks will have an opportunity to regroup and focus on their next games, but they will need to address their defensive shortcomings if they hope to make a playoff push.
Celtics Make a Statement
The Boston Celtics’ dominant season opener not only showcased their offensive firepower but also served as a statement to the rest of the league. Tying the NBA record for 3-pointers in a game and securing a blowout win against the Knicks is an early sign that the defending champions are poised to challenge for another title.
With Jayson Tatum leading the way and the Celtics playing an efficient, team-first style of basketball, Boston looks ready to maintain its status as one of the league’s elite teams. For the Knicks, this game is a wake-up call and a reminder that competing in the East will require significant improvement on both ends of the court.
