NBA Playoffs Game 5 New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics: Odds, Tips and Predictions 05-14-25

​Tonight’s Game 5 between the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics at TD Garden is pivotal, with the Knicks leading the series 3–1 and aiming to clinch their first Eastern Conference Finals berth since 2000. The Celtics, however, face a significant challenge following the season-ending Achilles injury to their star player, Jayson Tatum.​

New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics

• Point Spread: Celtics -4.5
• Moneyline Knicks +152
• Moneyline Celtics -180
• Over/Under 208

🔍 Key Storylines

Celtics Without Tatum

Jayson Tatum’s absence is a significant blow to Boston. He led the team in points, rebounds, assists, and steals during the playoffs. His injury, a torn Achilles suffered in Game 4, not only sidelines him for the remainder of the postseason but could also impact the team’s performance in the upcoming season.

In Tatum’s absence, the Celtics will rely heavily on Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porziņģis to shoulder the offensive load. Sam Hauser’s probable return could provide some perimeter shooting, but the team will need a collective effort to compensate for the loss.

Knicks’ Momentum

The Knicks have capitalized on their opportunities, with Jalen Brunson leading the charge. In Game 4, Brunson posted 39 points and 12 assists, showcasing his ability to control the game’s tempo. The supporting cast, including Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns, has provided consistent contributions, making the Knicks a formidable opponent. ​

Notably, the Knicks have won their last four playoff games as road underdogs, indicating their resilience and capability to perform under pressure.

Knicks vs Celtics Moneyline

Injuries have killed the Celtics chamces in this series. They will put up a fight tonight and because of that the best bet is to bet on the Knicks and take the points. To find the best line, you need accounts with multiple sportsbooks, and we got you covered as we break down the best sports betting app

DraftKings

4.5/5

Tip: Bet Knicks +4.5

• Rebounds to be key
• Turnovers to be key
• Celtics at Home

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $150 in Bonus Bets *Paid Within 14 Days

Open DraftKings

The best NBA betting sites

To satisfy the ever-growing market of NBA bettors, the best basketball sportsbooks offer unique user experiences, huge payouts, and fantastic bonuses. Gamers no longer have to go to casinos to find some physical action. Online bookies let you play the game of risk from the comfort of your own home. We hope our guide can point you in the right direction so you can find the best gambling experiences on the internet.

Best Brand

FanDuel Promo

New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days

Get bonus now

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT). Hope is here. GamblingHelplineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 21+ (18+ DC, IA, KY, WV) only. New users only or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Casino, First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit required. Min $5 wager required for 5 consecutive days. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable Bet Reset tokens. Refund from token issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bet that expire 7 days after receipt. Max refund $200 per day. Restrictions apply, including token expiration. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Call 1-877-770-7867 (LA).

Best Slots

BetMGM Promo

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Get bonus now

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

Newcomer

DraftKings Promo

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $150 in Bonus Bets *Paid Within 14 Days

Get bonus now

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/NH/PR/WY). Void in CAN. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $150 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days after issuance. Stake removed from payout. Reward issued as $50 in Bonus Bets every 7 days via click-to-claim for 14 days. 7 days = 168hrs. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 8/23/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.

Award

Caesars Promo

Bet $1 and get double the winnings up to $25 for your next 10 bets

–

21+ New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Gambling Problem? 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

💰 Betting Insights

• Against the Spread (ATS): The Celtics have struggled recently, failing to cover in each of their last six night games against Eastern Conference opponents with winning records.

• Knicks as Underdogs: The Knicks have covered the spread in each of their last four playoff games as road underdogs against Atlantic Division opponents.

Knicks vs Celtics Over/Under 208

• With the over/under set at 207.5, bettors should consider the impact of Tatum’s absence on the Celtics’ scoring output.​

DraftKings

4.5/5

Tip: Bet the Under 208

• No Tatum
• Slow Pace
• Celtics at Home

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $150 in Bonus Bets *Paid Within 14 Days

Open DraftKings

Given the Celtics’ current predicament without their star player and the Knicks’ momentum, New York appears poised to close out the series. While Boston has the home-court advantage, the Knicks’ recent performances suggest they can overcome this hurdle.

Bet Knicks +4.5