Celtics vs. Knicks Prediction and Odds: New York Eye East Finals Spot in Game 6

The Eastern Conference second-round series between the Celtics and Knicks has taken an interesting turn. After a Game 5 victory, the Boston Celtics can force a Game 7 against the New York Knicks. For new users at FanDuel Sportsbook, you can bet $5 and receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins!

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While many expected the Boston Celtics to falter in Game 5, they instead delivered a dominant blowout to keep their season alive and force a high-pressure Game 6 at Madison Square Garden. This resilient performance has caused a notable shift in the latest NBA Eastern Conference odds, as the New York Knicks must now regroup from a 25-point shellacking to secure their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals against a shorthanded, Tatum-less Boston squad. All eyes return to New York tonight as Game 6 tips off at 8:00 PM EST, with the Knicks fighting to close out the series on their legendary home court.

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Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks Betting Odds

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Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks Betting Pick

• My Pick: Spread - New York Knicks -2.5 (-110) at FanDuel

Game 5 was a warning shot by the Boston Celtics, telling the New York Knicks that they aren’t to be underestimated just because Jayson Tatum is unavailable. Despite the blowout loss, the Knicks still have a significant advantage, especially on home court. Don’t expect another red-hot shooting night from the Celtics on the road, and count on the Knicks to rediscover their defensive form. Expect to see the Knicks book their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals.

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Boston Celtics Preview

The reigning champion Boston Celtics showed their quality in Game 5. When everyone counted them out, they put on a vintage performance to extend the series despite Jayson Tatum's absence. Don't expect the Celtics to take their foot off the gas as the series shifts to New York.

The Celtics were brilliant in Game 5, as they tried to force a Game 7 with Jayson Tatum out for the season. Their offense was locked in, scoring 127 points on 52.4% from the field. They also hit 22 threes on 44.9% efficiency. They won the rebounding battle by four and assisted on 27 of 44 made field goals. It's unlikely they'll have such a perfect offensive showing in Game 6, but they've shown New York they are just as capable without Tatum.

In Jayson Tatum's absence, reigning Eastern Conference Finals and NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown led the way. In his starring role, he posted 26 points, 12 assists, eight rebounds, and three-made threes on 52.9% shooting. But defensive ace Derrick White led the team in scoring, with 34 points and seven made threes.

Among the bottom half of teams against the spread this season, the Celtics posted a 43-48-1 ATS Record, 18th in the NBA. They have a 47.3% cover percentage, a +9.2 margin of victory, and a -0.1 ATS +/- this season. Game 5 saw the Celtics cover the spread (-5.0), hit over the total (208.0), and win outright (-198).

Regarding the Boston Celtics injury report, (F) Jayson Tatum (Achilles) is out for the remainder of the playoffs after undergoing surgery on a torn Achilles suffered in Game 4. Also, (C) Kristaps Porzingis (Illness) is questionable for Game 6.

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New York Knicks Preview

Many believed the New York Knicks would have an easy path to the NBA Finals when Jayson Tatum went down with injury. Instead, the Knicks were overwhelmed in Game 5 and must recover on their home court to stave off a Game 7 in Boston.

New York struggled on the road against the Celtics in Game 5. They scored 102 points on 35.8% shooting despite knocking down 12 threes on 40.0% efficiency. Four of their starters combined to shoot 4-of-15 from three-point range, their overall efficiency buoyed by the performance of Josh Hart and Miles McBride. The Celtics offense is threatening, and the Knicks can’t hope to stave off a Game 7 if they can’t keep pace on Friday night.

In Game 5, the Knicks were led by Josh Hart and Jalen Brunson, who combined for 46 points, eight assists, eight rebounds, and five made threes. Karl-Anthony Towns backed them up with 19 points and eight rebounds. Unfortunately, Anunoby and Bridges remain inconsistent, combining for just 15 points on 5-of-26 shooting. New York needs an all-around effort if they hope to progress to the Eastern Conference Finals.

One of the league’s top teams against the spread, the New York Knicks have a 47-45-1 ATS Record, sixth-best in the NBA. They have a 51.1% cover percentage, a +3.3 margin of victory, and a -0.8 ATS +/- this season. In Game 5, New York just hit over the total (208.0).

The New York Knicks have no current injuries.

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How to Watch Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks

• Teams: Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks

• Location: Madison Square Garden, New York, New York

• Date: 8:00 PM, Friday, May 16, 2025

• TV:  ESPN