Game Details:
Matchup: Knicks vs. Celtics
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 | 7:30 PM ET
Venue: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts
Betting Line: Celtics -5.5 | Over/Under: 214.0
Key Storylines
Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals
Following a tight Game 1 that saw the Celtics edge out the Knicks 102-97, Boston holds a 1-0 lead in this best-of-seven series. The Knicks had a strong showing but struggled to close the game late. Wednesday’s contest becomes a must-win for New York if they want to avoid falling into a dangerous 0-2 hole heading back to Madison Square Garden.
Brunson vs. Tatum: The Stars Take Center Stage
Jalen Brunson dropped 31 points in Game 1 but shot just 11-of-28 from the field. He’ll need a more efficient performance to lead his team to victory. On the other side, Jayson Tatum led the charge with 27 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his postseason poise.
Celtics’ Depth Advantage
One key difference in Game 1 was Boston’s depth. Derrick White and Al Horford provided crucial minutes, while New York leaned heavily on its starters. With a short rotation due to injuries, the Knicks’ bench was outscored 38-21 on Monday and needs to step up.
Injury Report
Knicks:
Out: Julius Randle (shoulder), Mitchell Robinson (ankle)
Doubtful: Bojan Bogdanovic (calf)
Celtics:
Out: Kristaps Porzingis (calf strain)
Betting Trends
Against the Spread (ATS):
Knicks: 44-38-1 ATS this season
Celtics: 42-39-2 ATS this season
Over/Under Trends:
The total has gone under in 4 of the last 5 Celtics home playoff games.
The total has gone under in 7 of the last 10 Knicks games overall.
Head-to-Head:
Boston has won 4 of the last 5 meetings against New York, including a 3-1 edge in the regular season.
Player Prop to Watch
Jalen Brunson (Knicks) – Points Total: 28.5
With Randle sidelined, Brunson continues to shoulder the offensive load. He’s scored 30+ in 5 straight playoff games, making the over on his points an enticing play.
Jaylen Brown (Celtics) – Threes Made: 2.5
Brown hit 3-of-5 from beyond the arc in Game 1. With New York collapsing inside, Brown’s perimeter opportunities could increase.
Prediction & Best Bets
Spread: Celtics -5.5 → Boston’s balance and defensive versatility should wear down the short-handed Knicks.
Total: Under 214.0 → Both teams emphasize defense, especially in the half-court playoff setting.
Player Prop: Jalen Brunson Over 28.5 points → High usage and playoff momentum keeps him hot.
Despite a gutsy effort from the Knicks in Game 1, Boston’s home-court edge and deeper bench should carry them to another win. Expect the Celtics to control the tempo and force New York into a grind-it-out battle.
Final Score Prediction: Celtics 106, Knicks 98