Celtics release preseason schedule

The Celtics unveiled their preseason schedule on Monday with a reduced slate of four games for the 2017-18 season. That’s a steep dropoff from the seven exhibition games the Celtics played during the 2016-17 season. The reduction largely stems from an earlier start date to the NBA season in 2017-18 (Oct. 17), as the league prioritizes more rest in between games during the regular season schedule. NBA training camps will also start one week earlier to accommodate for the shift in scheduling.

The Celtics’ preseason schedule is highlighted by a pair of matchups with No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz and the Philadelphia 76ers. The two teams first face off on Oct. 6 in Philadelphia, followed by a return date at the TD Garden on Oct. 9.

The Celtics will play both of their home games at the Garden during the preseason, as another byproduct of a reduced schedule means other traditional preseason home sites in Portland, Maine and Connecticut for will be passed over for this year.

Here is a look at the full four-game schedule. The full regular season schedule is expected to be announced within the next two weeks.

Monday Oct. 2 vs. Charlotte Hornets at TD Garden. 7:30 p.m. ET
Friday Oct. 6 @ Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center (Philadelphia, PA). 7:00 p.m. ET
Monday Oct. 9 vs. Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden. 7:30 p.m. ET
Wednesday Oct. 11 @ Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center (Charlotte, NC). 7:00 p.m. ET