Ahead of their first game of the new year, the reigning champion Boston Celtics are 24-9 and own the No. 2 seed in the East. Ranked as a top-10 team on both sides of the ball, the Celtics look primed for another deep playoff run.

As you would expect, these surprises have changed some of the narratives regarding Boston's biggest threats. It's hard to envision the Sixers being at a high enough level to test Joe Mazzulla's team over a seven-game series. On the other hand, the Cavaliers and the New York Knicks are worrisome prospects despite their dicey start.

After a lackluster December, the Celtics will begin 2025 with a real mettle-sharpening road trip against four of the best teams in the West.