Knicks opening 2024-25 NBA season vs. Celtics in immediate test

The retooled Knicks immediately will see what — and who — they are chasing in the Eastern Conference to start the upcoming season.

The Knicks will open the season on Oct. 22 in Boston against the defending NBA champions, with the Celtics receiving their championship rings, according to The Athletic.

The Knicks finished as the No. 2 seed in the East last season at 50-32, albeit 14 games behind the league-best Celtics, who went on to defeat the Mavericks in the NBA Finals.

The Knicks ousted the 76ers in the first round of the playoffs before falling to the Pacers in the conference semifinals.

The Knicks added Mikal Bridges in a trade with the Nets and re-signed All-Star guard Jalen Brunson and head coach Tom Thibodeau to contract extensions during the offseason.

The Knicks also announced their five-game preseason schedule on Monday, including home games against the Wizards (10/9), Timberwolves (10/13) and Hornets (10/15).

They also will play at Charlotte (10/6) and at Washington (10/18).