Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks (Game 1): Prediction

Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks Game 1: Prediction, Probable Starting Lineups, And Injury Updates (May 05, 2025)

Semifinal Showdown 1 updates of Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks ,including Prediction, Probable Starting Lineups, And Injury status — *Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaylen Brown (Photo By John Jones/Imagn Images)*

The Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks will have their first semifinal clash at TD Garden on Monday, May 5.

The defending champions, the Boston Celtics, demonstrated their pure dominance over the Orlando Magic with a 4-1 victory in their Round 1 series. In the 2025 NBA Playoffs, Jayson Tatum is leading the Celtics in scoring with an average of 31.4 points in four games, followed by Jalen Brown, who averages 23 points in five games, and Derrick White, who scores 17.2 points per game. Tatum also leads the team in rebounding and ranks second in assists.

On the other hand, the New York Knicks proved their efficiency by securing a triumphant 4-2 win against the Detroit Pistons in their first playoff series. Jalen Brunson, with 31.5 points per game, leads the Knicks in scoring in the playoffs, followed by Karl-Anthony Towns (19.7), OG Anunoby (17.3), and Mikal Bridges (16.2). Annunoby also leads the Knicks in stocks, while KAT is the rebounding leader.

Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks Game 1: Prediction

Celtics vs. Knicks Prediction Game 1 — *Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (Image Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images)*

The upcoming semifinal showdown between the Knicks and the Celtics creates high anticipation as both teams’ recent advanced form. Boston will mostly rely on their key contributor, Jayson Tatum’s all-around offensive skills, to challenge the Knicks’ defensive depth, complemented by Jalen brown’s dynamic scoring threat. However, they might miss Jrue Holiday’s defensive leadership if his recent hamstring injury keeps him sidelined.

On the Knicks’ side, Jalen Brunson’s playmaking performances and Karl-Anthony Towns’ excellent presence with consistency mark them as a formidable contender to compete. Moreover, OG Anunoby’s defensive attack will play a significant role in trying to control Tatum, indicating a tightly contested battle.