The NBA just dropped a bombshell for Celtics fans: two brand new games have been added to Boston's schedule, and they’re coming sooner than you think. After a disappointing 2-2 finish in the NBA Cup pool play, the Celtics were knocked out of the tournament, leaving fans wondering what’s next. But here’s where it gets interesting: the NBA has stepped in to fill the void with two fresh matchups against Eastern Conference rivals who also missed the knockout round. And this is the part most people miss—these games aren’t just filler; they’re strategically placed during the NBA Cup knockout phase, giving the Celtics a rare 11-day stretch with only two games to focus on.
First up, the Celtics hit the road to face the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, December 11, at 8 p.m. ET. This game is a big deal because it marks the first time Boston will face a Bucks team that’s just welcomed back their superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo, after a four-game absence due to injury. The Bucks started the season on fire with Giannis in the lineup but have since stumbled, losing seven straight games and falling to an 8-12 record. Will the Celtics capitalize on Milwaukee’s recent struggles, or will Giannis’ return spark a comeback? It’s a matchup that could go either way.
Then, on Monday, December 15, at 7 p.m. ET, the Celtics return home to TD Garden to host the Detroit Pistons. This game has its own intrigue—Boston has already split two games against Detroit this season, including a thrilling 117-114 victory that snapped the Pistons’ 13-game winning streak on November 26. Will the Pistons seek revenge, or will the Celtics solidify their dominance in this head-to-head?
But here’s where it gets controversial: While these games give the Celtics a chance to regroup, they also highlight the NBA’s scheduling quirks. Why add games during the NBA Cup knockout round, when most of the league’s attention is elsewhere? Is this a missed opportunity for the Celtics to rest key players, or a strategic move to keep them sharp for the second half of the season? Let’s not forget, the NBA Cup semifinals are set for December 13, with the final tipping off in Las Vegas on December 16. Will these new Celtics games steal some of the tournament’s thunder, or will they serve as a reminder of what Boston is missing?
For now, Celtics fans have two new dates to circle on their calendars. And for the rest of the NBA, these games are a reminder that even in defeat, the show must go on. What do you think? Are these added games a blessing or a curse for the Celtics? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Here’s a quick look at the NBA Cup knockout round matchups starting December 9:
- Quarterfinals: Miami at Orlando, New York at Toronto, Phoenix at Oklahoma City, San Antonio at LA Lakers.
Brian Robb, who has been covering the Celtics since 2010 with stints at NBA.com, Bleacher Report, and Boston.com, brings you this update. You can reach him at BRobb@masslive.com or follow him on Twitter for more insights.
