Where to watch Denver Nuggets vs Boston Celtics preseason game: TV details, streaming options and more (Oct. 4)

After months of anticipation, NBA fans will finally see real action again as the Denver Nuggets take on the Boston Celtics in 2024-25's first preseason game. The two most recent NBA champions will face off in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The two teams will meet for two preseason games, first on Oct. 4 and again on Oct. 6, both held at Etihad Arena. This preseason matchup features the redemption-seeking Nuggets, the 2023 champions, and the Celtics, the 2024 champions, who are eyeing a title defense.

Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic will go head-to-head with Finals MVP Jaylen Brown, supported by Celtics stars Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White, who were key players for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

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When and where to watch the Denver Nuggets vs Boston Celtics preseason game

Start Time: Noon ET

Game Arena: Etihad Arena

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Tickets: Tickets for this matchup can be bought on multiple platforms, including Ticketmaster.

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TV channels, streaming options for Denver Nuggets vs Boston Celtics preseason game

Fans can use NBA League Pass or tune in to NBA TV to watch the preseason matchup.

It can also be streamed via NBC Sports Boston or online via Sling TV's free trial. NBC Sports Boston is also available on FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu and DirectTV Stream.

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Denver Nuggets vs Boston Celtics injury reports

For the Nuggets, rookie big man DaRon Holmes II is out for the season due to an Achilles injury. Peyton Watson and Jalen Pickett are also likely sidelined until the start of the regular season.

Meanwhile, for the Celtics, Kristaps Porzingis is expected to be unavailable until December.

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Previewing Denver Nuggets vs Boston Celtics preseason game

The Nuggets underwent some offseason adjustments. The 2023 champions had to part with key players from their championship core, including Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (who signed with the Orlando Magic), Collin Gillespie, Justin Holiday, James Huff, Braxton Key and Reggie Jackson. To fill these gaps, they signed veterans like Russell Westbrook and Dario Saric on team-friendly deals.

Meanwhile, the Celtics lost Oshae Brissett and Svi Mykhailiuk but kept most of their core intact.

A key storyline for the Nuggets is the health of Jamal Murray, who struggled during the Paris Olympics. On the Celtics' side, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White were standout contributors for Team USA.

While the Nuggets may experience some growing pains with their new lineup, Nikola Jokic is expected to maintain his dominant form. However, the Celtics' continuity may give them an edge in pulling off the victory in their first preseason matchup.