Game Details:

Matchup: Celtics vs. Knicks
Date & Time: Saturday, May 10, 2025 | 7:30 PM ET
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
Betting Line: Celtics -3.5 | Over/Under: 219.5

Key Storylines

Playoff Seeding Implications

With both teams locked into the Eastern Conference playoff picture, this late-season showdown carries significant implications for postseason seeding. The Celtics are currently holding onto the second seed, while the Knicks are lurking closely behind in fourth, just a few games back.

Jayson Tatum Heating Up

Jayson Tatum has found his rhythm heading into May, averaging 29.6 points over his last five games. Coming off a 35-point performance against the 76ers, Tatum looks poised to lead Boston in a crucial road test.

Madison Square Garden Advantage

Known for their strong play at home, the Knicks have a 27-12 home record this season. MSG has been a fortress, and in front of a passionate playoff-hungry crowd, expect Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson to rise to the occasion.

Injury Report

Celtics:
Out: Kristaps Porzingis (calf), Sam Hauser (ankle)
Questionable: Jrue Holiday (rest)

Knicks:
Out: Mitchell Robinson (ankle), OG Anunoby (elbow)
Day-to-Day: Josh Hart (hamstring)

Betting Trends

Against the Spread (ATS)

Celtics: 40-35-1 ATS
Knicks: 39-36-2 ATS

Over/Under Trends

The total has gone Over in 4 of the last 5 Celtics games.
The total has gone Under in 7 of the Knicks’ last 10 home games.

Player Prop to Watch

Jalen Brunson (Knicks) – Points Total: 24.5
Brunson has been the engine of the Knicks offense, especially with Anunoby sidelined. In his last three outings he’s averaged 26.3 points, making the over a strong consideration here.

Jayson Tatum (Celtics) – 3-pointers Made: 2.5
Tatum has hit at least 3 threes in 4 of his last 5 matchups. With spacing concerns due to Porzingis being out, Tatum might increase his perimeter shooting volume.

Prediction & Best Bets

Spread: Celtics -3.5 → Boston’s more consistent offensive execution and playoff urgency should give them the edge.
Total: Under 219.5 → With two top-5 defenses squaring off and both squads missing key contributors, expect a lower-scoring affair.
Player Prop: Jalen Brunson Over 24.5 Points → High usage rate and home-court boost make this an attractive play.

Both teams are elite defensive units, but the Celtics’ recent form and deeper roster—anchored by Tatum and Brown—should be enough to edge out a hard-fought win at MSG. Don’t be surprised if it comes down to the final couple of possessions.

Final Score Prediction: Celtics 108, Knicks 102