Knicks vs Celtics Free Pick, NBA Free Picks, NBA Predictions 5/7/25
J.A. Cavalier- May 7
- 3 min read
NEW YORK VS BOSTON (BOS -10.5, 211.5)
NBA ODDS, NBA PREDICTIONS, NBA PREVIEWS
KNICKS @ CELTICS 5/7/25
The New York Knicks and Boston Celtics square off tonight in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series at 7:00 PM ET at TD Garden in Boston. After a stunning 108-105 overtime victory in Game 1, the Knicks hold a 1-0 series lead and have seized home-court advantage. The Celtics, meanwhile, are desperate to bounce back and avoid falling into a 0-2 hole.
The Knicks overcame a 20-point deficit late in the third quarter to secure the biggest Game 1 comeback in the playoffs since 2016. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby were instrumental, each scoring 29 points, with Anunoby hitting six three-pointers and making clutch plays in the fourth quarter and overtime.
Boston shot a dismal 35.1% from the field and 25% from three-point range in Game 1, despite attempting a playoff-record 60 three-pointers. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined for just 5-of-25 from beyond the arc, and their inefficiency was a key factor in the loss.
Kristaps Porzingis played only 13 minutes in Game 1 due to illness, and his status for Game 2 remains uncertain. Sam Hauser also exited Game 1 with an ankle injury, potentially stretching Boston’s depth.
New York’s defense was stellar in the second half of Game 1, holding Boston to just 39 points after halftime. Their ability to contest shots and force turnovers will be critical again in Game 2. The Celtics have been in this position before, with the experience of bouncing back from tough losses. Expect adjustments, particularly in their shot selection and defensive rotations.
Boston dominated the offensive glass with 19 offensive rebounds, compared to New York’s 12. However, the Knicks capitalized on their second-chance opportunities more effectively and forced 15 turnovers in Game 1, including a critical late-game steal by Anunoby. Boston must take better care of the ball in Game 2.
The Celtics have averaged 121 points per game in their last five meetings with the Knicks, but Game 1’s defensive intensity from New York disrupted that trend. Boston must improve their shot selection and efficiency, particularly from three-point range, to avoid another upset. However, New York’s confidence is sky-high after their Game 1 comeback, and their defense will be critical in keeping this game close.
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FREE PICKS:
Derrick White - Over 19.5 Points + Assists
White has hit this line in 80% of his last 10 games, averaging 22.2 points + assists over that span. He also excelled in Game 1 with 19 points and five three-pointers.
Josh Hart - Over 4.5 Assists
Hart has been a consistent playmaker, hitting this line in 70.7% of his road games this season. He also recorded five assists in Game 1.
Jayson Tatum - Over 33.5 Points + Assists
Tatum has hit this line in 80% of his last five games against the Knicks, averaging 38.2 points + assists in those matchups. Expect a bounce-back performance in Game 2.
