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How to Stream Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers NBA Game Legally: team news, livestream, TV channel, and start time
The historic rivalry between the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers is one of the NBA’s most anticipated matchups. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or casual viewer, here’s your guide to streaming this classic rivalry legally and safely.Watch: Celtics vs Lakers Live
Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers: Date and tip-off time
The Boston Celtics will take on the Los Angeles Lakers in an epic NBA game on December 5, 2025, at 7:00 pm ET/4:00 pm PT at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.| Date | December 5, 2025 |
| Tip-off Time | 7:00 pm ET/4:00 pm PT |
| Venue | TD Garden |
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
Official NBA Streaming Options
1. NBA League Pass
- What it offers: Live and on-demand access to every Celtics and Lakers game (subject to blackout restrictions)
- Options:
- Team Pass: Follow just one team’s games
- League Pass: All NBA games
- Premium: Includes commercial-free viewing and in-arena feeds
- Note: Local market games are typically blacked out on League Pass
2. National TV Broadcast Partners
Check which network is broadcasting the specific Celtics-Lakers matchup:- ESPN/ABC: Most marquee matchups air on these Disney-owned networks
- Stream via ESPN app with cable/satellite login
- Available on Sling TV (Orange package), YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream
- TNT: Select regular season and playoff games
- Stream via TNT app with provider login
- Available on same streaming services as above
- NBA TV: Occasionally broadcasts games
- Available through League Pass or select live TV streaming services
Live TV Streaming Services (Carry NBA Broadcast Networks)
These services offer legal alternatives to cable:- YouTube TV ($72.99/month) – Carries ESPN, ABC, TNT, NBA TV
- Hulu + Live TV ($76.99/month) – Carries ESPN, ABC, TNT
- Sling TV (starting at $40/month) – Orange package includes ESPN, TNT
- DirecTV Stream (starting at $79.99/month) – Carries all major NBA networks
- fuboTV ($79.99/month) – Carries ESPN, ABC, NBA TV (check for TNT availability)
International Viewers
- Canada: NBA League Pass or TSN/Sportsnet subscriptions
- UK: Sky Sports or NBA League Pass
- Australia: ESPN via Kayo Sports or NBA League Pass
- Europe: NBA League Pass (pricing varies by country)
Mobile and App Options
- NBA App: Stream games with valid League Pass or TV provider subscription
- ESPN App: Access with participating TV provider credentials
- Team Apps: Both Celtics and Lakers have official apps with streaming links
Avoiding Blackout Restrictions
If you’re in the Boston or Los Angeles markets:- Boston area: NBC Sports Boston with cable authentication
- Los Angeles area: Spectrum SportsNet with cable authentication
- Consider using an antenna for local ABC broadcasts if available
Free Legal Options
While most quality streaming requires payment, you can sometimes find:- NBA’s free game of the week on the NBA app (limited selection)
- Trial periods for streaming services
- Network websites sometimes offer limited free viewing with cable authentication
What to Avoid
- Unofficial streaming sites (often violate copyright, poor quality, security risks)
- Social media live streams of full games (typically taken down for copyright infringement)
- VPN misuse to circumvent blackout policies (violates League Pass terms)
Plan Ahead for Big Games
Celtics-Lakers matchups often sell out broadcast slots early. Check the NBA schedule and confirm broadcast information 24-48 hours before tip-off. Set up your streaming choice in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues.Final Tip
For the best viewing experience, ensure you have:- Stable internet connection (10+ Mbps recommended for HD)
- Compatible device (smart TV, streaming stick, game console, computer, or mobile)
- Updated apps and browsers