New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics: 2025 NBA Playoffs Series Prediction, Schedule, May 05, 2025
The 2025 Eastern Conference Semifinals are set to ignite as the Boston Celtics host the New York Knicks in Game 1 on Monday, May 5, at TD Garden. This matchup marks the 15th postseason meeting between these storied franchises, with the series currently tied at 7-7. The Celtics, boasting a 61-21 regular-season record, swept the Knicks 4-0 during the season, outscoring them by an average margin of 16 points per game.
Team Overviews
Boston Celtics
The Celtics enter the semifinals with momentum, having dispatched the Orlando Magic in five games during the first round. A significant boost comes from the return of Jrue Holiday, who missed the final three games of the first round due to a hamstring strain. Holiday's defensive prowess will be crucial in containing Knicks' star Jalen Brunson.
Jaylen Brown, who dealt with a right knee impingement, is also back to full strength. In the first round, Brown averaged 23 points per game, shooting nearly 50% from the field.
New York Knicks
The Knicks advanced to the semifinals after a hard-fought six-game series against the Detroit Pistons. Jalen Brunson led the charge, averaging 26.7 points per game and shooting 43.3% from three-point range during the regular season against the Celtics.
Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges have also been instrumental, with Towns delivering a standout performance in Game 6 against the Pistons. The Knicks' depth and resilience will be tested against the well-rested Celtics.
| Category | Boston Celtics | New York Knicks |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Season Record | 61–21 | 51–31 |
| Points Per Game | 118.1 | 114.2 |
| Opponent Points Per Game | 104.5 | 108.7 |
| Field Goal % | 47.5% | 46.2% |
| 3-Point % | 38.6% | 36.9% |
| Rebounds Per Game | 45.2 | 44.1 |
Note: Statistics are based on regular-season averages.
Injury Report
Boston Celtics:
Jrue Holiday (G): Cleared to play after recovering from a right hamstring strain.
Jaylen Brown (F): Fully recovered from a right knee impingement.
New York Knicks:
No players listed on the injury report ahead of Game 1.
Key Matchups
Jrue Holiday vs. Jalen Brunson:
Holiday's return sets up a critical defensive assignment against Brunson, who has been the Knicks' offensive engine. Containing Brunson will be pivotal for the Celtics.
Frontcourt Battle:
The duel between Kristaps Porziņģis and Karl-Anthony Towns will be a focal point. Porziņģis' rim protection and floor spacing contrast with Towns' versatile scoring and rebounding.
Betting Odds
Spread: Celtics -9
Over/Under: 213 points
Moneyline: Celtics -375, Knicks +290
Prediction
The Celtics' depth, defensive tenacity, and playoff experience position them as favorites in this series. While the Knicks have shown resilience, especially in their first-round victory, overcoming Boston's multifaceted attack will be a formidable challenge.
Prediction: Celtics win Game 1 and take the series in 6 games.
How to Watch
Date: Monday, May 5, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM ET
Venue: TD Garden, Boston, MA
Broadcast: TNT and NBA League Pass
As the Celtics and Knicks renew their rivalry in the playoffs, fans can anticipate a series filled with strategic battles, individual brilliance, and high-stakes basketball. Game 1 will set the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating semifinal showdown.
