The intense rivalry between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks has been reignited in the second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs. The series kicked off with a dramatic Game 1 on Monday night, where the Knicks overcame a 20-point deficit to secure a 108-105 overtime victory, snatching home-court advantage from the defending champions.
Boston struggled significantly with their shooting in Game 1, missing an NBA record 45 three-pointers, connecting on just 15 of 60 attempts from beyond the arc. Despite this poor performance and the initial loss, the Celtics remain the strong favorites to win the series, which continues with Game 2 on Wednesday night.
This marks the first time these two historic franchises have met in the playoffs since 2013. In the first round, the reigning NBA champion Celtics eliminated the Orlando Magic in five games. The Knicks advanced by defeating the Detroit Pistons in a more challenging six-game series.
Both teams feature All-NBA talent leading the way. Celtics forward Jayson Tatum was dominant in the first round, averaging 31.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists against the Magic. For the Knicks, guard Jalen Brunson was equally impressive, averaging 31.5 points and 8.2 assists per game in their series against the Pistons.
Celtics vs. Knicks Series Schedule and Scores
All times Eastern
- Game 1: Knicks 108, Celtics 105 (OT) — New York leads 1-0
- Game 2: Wednesday, May 7 | Celtics vs. Knicks | 7 p.m., TNT/Max
- Game 3: Saturday, May 10 | Knicks vs. Celtics | Time/TV TBD
- Game 4: Monday, May 12 | Knicks vs. Celtics | Time/TV TBD
- *Game 5: Wednesday, May 14 | Celtics vs. Knicks | Time/TV TBD
- *Game 6: Friday, May 16 | Knicks vs. Celtics | Time/TV TBD
- *Game 7: Monday, May 19 | Celtics vs. Knicks | Time/TV TBD
Celtics vs. Knicks Odds
Odds via DraftKings
- Series odds: Celtics -300, Knicks +250
- Game 1 odds: Celtics -9.5, O/U 211 (Note: These are the odds *for* Game 1, which has already been played)
Celtics vs. Knicks Game 2 Pick
Game 2 pick to be announced.
