Boston (2-3) at New York (3-2)
- When: May 16 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: ESPN
Celtics vs. Knicks – Game 6 Preview, Prediction and Player Props
Spread: New York -3.0 | Total: 211.0
Celtics Look to Force Game 7 Against the Knicks in New York
The Boston Celtics head to Madison Square Garden on Friday night with a mission to even up their Eastern Conference semifinals series against the New York Knicks. Despite losing superstar Jayson Tatum to a devastating Achilles injury in Game 4, the Celtics roared back with a 127-102 thrashing in Game 5, proving they still have plenty of fight left. New York is the 3-point favorite for Game 6, with the total set at 211.0.
Boston Celtics: Resilient Without Tatum
Boston showed it wasn’t ready to fold just because of Tatum’s injury. They’ve actually excelled without him this season, posting a 10-2 record when he’s been sidelined, including a 2-0 mark in the playoffs. Jaylen Brown has stepped up big, pouring in 26 points, 12 assists, and 8 rebounds in Game 5, while Derrick White exploded for 34 points, hitting seven 3-pointers.
One of the more surprising heroes for Boston was Luke Kornet, who stepped up with 10 points, nine rebounds, and seven blocks after Kristaps Porzingis exited with a viral illness. Kornet’s performance was a major spark for the Celtics, and Boston coach Joe Mazzulla praised the team’s collective effort, stating, “We did what was necessary to get it back to New York. Now, we have to do it again.”
Boston’s defense also suffocated New York’s shooters, holding them to just 35.8% from the field. With the momentum clearly in their favor, the Celtics are poised to bring that same energy to Madison Square Garden in hopes of forcing a Game 7 back in Boston.
New York Knicks: Home Court to Seal the Deal?
Despite holding a 3-2 series lead, the Knicks are feeling the pressure after their Game 5 collapse. Jalen Brunson led the charge with 22 points before fouling out, while Josh Hart added 24 points on five made triples. However, the rest of the team struggled, with OG Anunoby going 1-for-12 and Mikal Bridges managing just 9 points on 4-of-14 shooting.
New York head coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the need for more intensity and sharper defensive adjustments. “We can’t be slow getting back. You can’t give open shots to them,” Thibodeau said. “We have to be better with our close-outs and communication.” With the series back in their house, the Knicks have a chance to end it before the Celtics gain any more steam.
Player Prop Picks:
Jaylen Brown Over 24.5 Points – With Tatum out, Brown has become the focal point of the Celtics’ offense, and his scoring is vital for Boston’s hopes.
Jalen Brunson Over 6.5 Assists – Brunson has been the Knicks’ playmaker, and he’ll need to facilitate more if they hope to keep up with Boston’s firepower.
Game 6 Prediction and Final Score
Boston seems to have all the momentum after their dominant Game 5 performance. The Celtics are 10-2 without Tatum this season, proving they can handle adversity. Expect Boston to take this one on the road in a tightly contested 109-105 win, setting up a dramatic Game 7 back at TD Garden.
Spread: Boston ML (+125)
Toral: Over 211.0
Final Score Prediction: Boston 109, New York 105
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
