The Boston Celtics are shifting their focus from their recent NBA Championship title to the upcoming NBA Cup, also known as the NBA In-Season Tournament. The tournament kicks off this week, with the Celtics set to face off against the Atlanta Hawks at TD Garden. The atmosphere promises to be competitive, as all 30 NBA teams vie for the Cup, with the tournament concluding in Las Vegas on December 17.
Last season, the Celtics were unable to make it to the Las Vegas stage after being eliminated by the Indiana Pacers. However, they enter this year’s tournament as favorites, motivated to turn last season’s disappointment into triumph. With pride and a financial incentive on the line, the Celtics are eager to show their competitive spirit.
A notable change for the tournament is the use of a special court at TD Garden, distinctively adorned in green. While this design generally receives mixed reviews, it marks a departure from last year’s more whimsical court design. The Celtics will also sport new City Edition uniforms throughout the tournament, which have drawn criticism for their aesthetic, but ultimately, the players appreciate the opportunity to play for the Cup.
The Celtics are placed in Group C of the Eastern Conference along with the Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, and Washington Wizards, while also facing a tough opponent in the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers. Group Play will feature games on Tuesdays and Fridays, starting with their match against the Hawks on November 12. The team’s performance in these games will determine their advancement to the Knockout Round, with a single-elimination format leading up to the Finals in Las Vegas.
While forward Jayson Tatum’s participation in the opener is uncertain due to an ankle sprain, both the Celtics and Hawks face challenges, with the latter missing their star player Trae Young due to Achilles tendinitis.
For winning the NBA Cup, players can earn significant financial rewards, with champions receiving $500,000 per player, while runners-up and semifinalists earn smaller amounts based on their performance. The opportunities for financial gain, especially for those lower on the roster, add an extra layer of motivation for the teams.
Overall, as the Celtics embark on this journey, their determination to reclaim their standing and secure the NBA Cup serves as a reminder of their competitive drive. The tournament not only offers a potential title but also a platform for showcasing talent and determination during the regular season.
This tournament could reignite some on-court chemistry and excitement, providing an entertaining diversion as the season progresses. Fans can look forward to witnessing a high level of competition as the Celtics aim to make a strong impression in the NBA Cup.