Game Details:
Matchup: Knicks vs. Celtics
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 | 8:00 PM ET
Venue: TD Garden, Boston, MA
Betting Line: Celtics -5.5 | Over/Under: 213.5

Key Storylines

Series on the Line

The Celtics and Knicks return to TD Garden for what promises to be a pivotal Game 5 in their tightly contested second-round playoff series. Tied 2-2, both teams have taken care of home court so far, and this matchup could determine the momentum as the series shifts back to New York for Game 6.

Brunson vs. Tatum Battle Heats Up

Jalen Brunson continues to be the heartbeat of the Knicks’ offense, averaging 28.5 points and 7.8 assists per game in the series. Meanwhile, Jayson Tatum has found his rhythm after a slow start, putting up back-to-back 30+ point games in Boston’s two wins. The two All-Stars are the focal points of their respective teams, and whichever star shines brighter could dictate the outcome of Game 5.

Injury Watch

Injuries are impacting both sides. The Knicks continue to be without Julius Randle (shoulder), who is out for the remainder of the playoffs. OG Anunoby (hamstring) remains questionable for tonight’s game after missing Game 4. For the Celtics, Kristaps Porziņģis (calf) is also listed as questionable and could be a game-time decision. Boston has adjusted well in his absence with a heavy reliance on Al Horford and small-ball lineups.

Betting Trends

• Against the Spread (ATS):
  Knicks: 45-40 ATS this season
  Celtics: 42-41-2 ATS this season
• Over/Under Record:
  The total has gone under in 6 of the last 8 Celtics games
  The total has gone under in 5 of the last 7 Knicks games
• Home Dominance:
  Celtics are 36-6 at home this season (including playoffs)
  Knicks are 21-25 on the road

Player Prop to Watch

Jalen Brunson – Points Total: 27.5
Brunson has cleared this mark in three of four games in this series. With the Knicks’ offense flowing through him and Anunoby possibly out again, expect another high-usage night. The over looks enticing.

Jaylen Brown – 3PT Made: 2.5
Brown has quietly been Boston’s X-factor, and with Porziņģis potentially out again, Brown will be more involved offensively. He’s hit three or more threes in each of the last two games.

Prediction & Best Bets

Spread: Celtics -5.5 → With home-court advantage and a top-tier defense, Boston has the edge, especially if Anunoby sits.
Total: Under 213.5 → Both teams are leaning hard on defense in this series.
Player Prop: Jalen Brunson Over 27.5 Pts → High usage and playoff-level shot making make it a strong play.

This game will likely come down to the final possessions, but Boston’s home dominance and slightly healthier lineup make them the safer pick. If Tatum and Brown continue their scoring surge, expect the Celtics to pull away late.

Final Score Prediction: Celtics 107, Knicks 100