Celtics vs Nuggets: Where to Watch NBA Preseason Game, Predicted Line-Up, Venue, Time & More

Two NBA champions, one court. You know what I am talking about. The Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets will be facing off in a thrilling NBA preseason matchup! After what seemed like a long offseason (be honest, now – offseasons always feel long, don’t they?), we are so ready to enjoy some much-needed basketball action.

To be fair, this offseason had its fair share of excitement. But we are discussing the NBA preseason now, so, let’s get back on topic. For the third straight year, the league is hosting its exhibition contests overseas. But this year’s extra special—it’s the first time the two most recent champions are squaring off. Let’s dive in!

Projected lineup for the Nuggets vs Celtics preseason opener

For the Celtics, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White will likely become the backcourt duo, along with Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Given that Kristaps Porzingis is still rehabbing from his foot surgery in June, Al Horford will take his place.

As for Denver, Nikola Jokic at the center, along with Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. are likely to form the frontcourt. Jamal Murray and Christian Braun will be taking the guard duties.

When and where will the NBA preseason game take place?

The two preseason games between the Celtics and Nuggets will take place at the Etihad Arena, in Yas Islands, Abu Dhabi. The first matchup will be on October 4 and is scheduled for noon ET. But it isn’t all work and no fun, no sir! Nikola Jokic’s love for animals is no secret. Although his favorite—horses—weren’t at hand, the team did have fun out in the desert, with camels.

As for Boston, they seemed to prefer peace and tranquility as opposed to some adventure time, as Jayson Tatum & Co. visited the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. And while we can get these updates from the teams’ official social media handles, where can we catch the live action?

How to watch the Celtics vs Nuggets?

NBC Sports Boston holds the exclusive rights to broadcast both NBA preseason games. You can catch all the action with play-by-play announcer Drew Carter and color analyst Brian Scalabrine calling the game. Live from Abu Dhabi, Celtics Insider Chris Forsberg will provide on-the-ground reports.

For those looking to stream the game, you can do it via the NBC Sports Boston app. However, if you do not have cable, it is also available on FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling, and DirectTV Stream. But what about those who live outside the Boston Celtics team territory? Don’t worry, you can stream it on NBA League Pass.

The NBA’s global presence has only increased as the years have gone by. While China remains the biggest consumer of the league, Commissioner Silver seems intent on broadening their horizons. And so far, the Middle East’s reception has been pretty great. I mean, for them to conduct exhibition games for the past three years in a row, something has to be working, right?

Hence, in addition to the NBA preseason, there will be two ultimate fan experience events: NBA District and NBA Fan Appreciation Day. The former is a four-day fan-engagement affair, held at the Manarat Al Saadiyat gallery from October 3 to 6. Those attending the event can meet the players, go all out on the full-length NBA court, click pictures with the Larry O’Brien trophy, and more.

As for the fan appreciation day, it will take place on October 5. The event features celebrity guests and musical acts, including the appearance of Shaquille O’Neal. The program will be held at the Etihad Arena. Abu Dhabi certainly has a feast prepared for fans!