Kevin Garnett makes a bold prediction regarding the New York Knicks on the KG Certified Podcast.

New York Knicks players and Kevin Garnett

Following their five-game victory over the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics recently became NBA champions for the 18th time. The Celtics put on a strong performance, and some believe they have what it takes to win back-to-back titles next season. Notably, former Celtics legend Kevin Garnett believes that the New York Knicks would give the Celtics their run for the money next season.

Garnett claimed on the KG Certified Show that the NY Knicks will be the Celtics’ toughest opponents in the Eastern Conference next 2024-25 NBA season. Garnett also claimed that the Knicks vs Celtics matchup will be “one to watch” as the Knicks side, according to Garnett has the firepower to go toe-to-toe with the Boston Celtics.

The f*****g Knicks and Celtics, we gotta pull up to that...To me, the Knicks are built to challenge this Celtics team, You got a f*****g point guard who's a closer. He's activated… Then you got an animal that's been in the cage with Randle. I'm putting my money on Randle this year. Robinson is one who wants to do his job.

On the KG Certified Podcast, Kevin Garnett said

In addition, with a 50-32 record, the Knicks, trailing the Boston Celtics in the ECF standings, earned the second seed for the 2023–24 season. The Knicks had a great season and established themselves as one of the best teams in the East but due to injuries to their main players, endured a poor run in the NBA Playoffs.

Julius Randle injury and New York Knicks’ almost-impossible run

The New York Knicks Julius Randle has been one of their main players alongside their star man Jalen Brunson. However, severe injuries to Randle ended his 2023-24 NBA season early in January 2024. Randle started the season on a good note, with his side winning crucial games in the Eastern Conference, finishing as 2nd seed.

In addition, in 46 games during the regular season, Randle averaged 24 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5 assists. Randle, who just finished his fifth season with the Knicks, was the face of the 2020–21 Knicks basketball team, however, Brunson has arguably assumed the title. Over the last five years, Randle has developed into a dominant player for the Knicks, averaging 22.6 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists.

One could argue that if Randle hadn’t been injured, the Knicks could go all the way in the NBA this 2023-24 season. Also, Randle and Brunson were causing havoc together in the NBA for the Knicks this season and the same will be expected by many in the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season.