Celtics vs Knicks Free Pick, NBA Free Picks, NBA Predictions 5/16/25
- J.A. Cavalier
- May 16
- 3 min read
BOS VS NEW YORK (NYK -2.5, 210.5)
NBA ODDS, NBA PREDICTIONS, NBA PREVIEWS
The Boston Celtics and New York Knicks face off tonight in Game 6 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series at 8:00 PM ET at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks lead the series 3-2 and are looking to advance to their first conference finals since 2000, while the Celtics aim to force a decisive Game 7 back in Boston.
New York’s offense has been inconsistent throughout the series, averaging just 104 points per 100 possessions in four of the five games. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns have carried the scoring load but struggled in Game 5, combining for 41 points on 12-of-28 shooting. The Knicks’ starting lineup has been inefficient, with an effective field goal percentage of just 46.7% in the series.
The Celtics have dominated in transition over the last three games, scoring 80 points on 52 transition possessions (1.54 points per possession). This has been a key factor in their offensive resurgence. Boston may continue to utilize smaller lineups with one big man on the floor, as this has been more effective (+16.4 net rating) than two-big lineups (-7.9 net rating). Averaging 112.4 points per game in the series, with a significant uptick in offensive efficiency over the last three games.
The Knicks return to Madison Square Garden, where they’ve been strong all season. However, Boston has already won once at MSG in this series (Game 3) and will look to replicate that performance. The Knicks need more production from their wings, particularly Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, who have struggled to find rhythm against Boston’s defense.
Boston shot 44.9% from three-point range in Game 5, led by Derrick White’s seven triples. The Knicks must improve their perimeter defense to avoid another barrage. Boston’s defense has been stellar, limiting New York’s stars and forcing tough shots. The Celtics have also been effective at defending without fouling, holding the Knicks to 33% shooting on two-point attempts in Game 5.
Big time games call for big time players, look for Jaylen Brown who is averaging 22.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in the playoffs. He’ll need another big game to keep Boston alive. Jalen Brunson leads the Knicks in time of possession (10.0 minutes per game) and is averaging 7+ assists in 9 of 11 playoff games.
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FREE PICKS:
Derrick White - Over 2.5 Three-Pointers
White has been on fire, hitting 7 threes in Game 5 and averaging 3.2 made threes per game over the last three games. With Tatum out, his offensive role has expanded.
Jalen Brunson - Over 6.5 Assists
Brunson has cleared this line in 9 of 11 playoff games and is averaging 7.3 assists per game in the postseason. Expect a bounce-back performance at home.
Luke Kornet - Over 1.5 Blocks
Kornet recorded 7 blocks in Game 5 and has been a defensive force in Tatum’s absence. His increased minutes make this a strong value play.
Josh Hart - Over 26.5 Points + Rebounds + Assists
Hart has hit this line in 6 of 9 games against Boston this season and is averaging 27.4 PRA in the series. His versatility will be key for the Knicks.
