Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks tips off today at 3:30 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden, broadcast nationally on ABC. The Knicks lead the series 2-0 after two stunning comeback wins in Boston, and the pressure is now squarely on the defending champions to respond.
Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks
- Point Spread: Boston -5.5
- Moneyline Boston -240
- Moneyline New York +198
- Over/Under 206.5
🔍 Key Storylines
Knicks: Poised and Unified
New York has showcased remarkable resilience, erasing 20-point deficits in both Games 1 and 2. Jalen Brunson has been instrumental, delivering clutch performances, while the defensive efforts of Mitchell Robinson, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges have stifled Boston’s offense. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s emphasis on discipline and team cohesion has been evident, with players like Josh Hart highlighting the collective grit and ability to mount comebacks.
Celtics: Urgency Amidst Adversity
Boston’s struggles have been multifaceted. Key players Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have faced offensive inconsistencies and defensive lapses, contributing to the team’s late-game collapses. The absence of Kristaps Porziņģis due to illness has further hampered their efforts. Coach Joe Mazzulla has acknowledged the need for introspection and improvement, as the team faces growing scrutiny and speculation about potential roster changes if the series continues to slip away.
Celtics vs Knicks Moneyline
Moneyline value exists for a bet on the Knicks. I am leaning towards taking the Knicks and the points. To find the best line, you need accounts with multiple sportsbooks, and we got you covered as we break down the
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Rebounds to be key
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Turnovers to be key
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Knicks at Home
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🔮 Betting Insights & Picks
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Best Bet: Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 Points (-115) Brunson has been the linchpin of New York’s offense, and with the series shifting to Madison Square Garden, he’s poised for another standout performance.
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Prop Bet: Jayson Tatum Over 10.5 Rebounds (+100) Tatum has been a force on the boards, recording 14 and 16 rebounds in the first two games, making this a value play.
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Lean: Knicks +5.5 Given their recent performances and home-court advantage, the Knicks covering the spread appears favorable.
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Celtics vs Knicks Over/Under 206.5
I am taking the over in this one, I expect a high-level game that goes down to the wire.
- Celtics will play well
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Brunson will come up big
- Knicks at Home
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The Timberwolves enter Game 2 as 9.5-point favorites, with a projected final score of 106–93 in their favor . The over/under is set at 202.5 points. Minnesota’s strong home-court presence and the Warriors’ adjustment to playing without Curry contribute to these odds. I like the Twolves 112-100.
The Knicks have an opportunity to take a commanding 3-0 series lead, a deficit no NBA team has ever overcome. Boston must harness their experience and talent to avoid a historic collapse. With the electric atmosphere of Madison Square Garden and the momentum on New York’s side, Game 3 promises to be a pivotal and thrilling contest. I am leaning towards a close Celtics win, take the Knicks and the points.
Bet New York +5.5
