Celtics vs Knicks

Celtics vs Knicks – NBA Playoffs Game 2 Preview (May 7, 2025)

Tonight at TD Garden, the Boston Celtics will look to bounce back as they host the New York Knicks in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Following a shocking overtime loss in Game 1, the Celtics are under pressure to deliver a much-needed response in front of their home crowd.

Game 1 Recap

In what can only be described as a dramatic and gritty contest, the Knicks stunned the Celtics 108–105 in overtime, erasing a 20-point third-quarter deficit. Boston, a team that usually thrives from beyond the arc, had a nightmare performance, setting an unfortunate NBA playoff record by missing 45 three-point attempts. They went just 15 for 60 from downtown—a disastrous shooting night that left fans and analysts baffled.

Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby were instrumental for the Knicks, each scoring 29 points. Mikal Bridges provided the game's defining moment by stealing the ball from Jaylen Brown in the final seconds of overtime, sealing the win and handing the Knicks a valuable road victory.

What’s at Stake in Game 2

Game 2 is pivotal for Boston. Losing both games at home would put them in a dangerous 0–2 hole as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden. For the Knicks, a win tonight would give them an incredible advantage and further solidify their status as legitimate contenders in this postseason run.

Key Areas to Watch

1. Celtics' Three-Point Shooting

The Celtics’ offensive scheme leans heavily on perimeter shooting. In Game 1, that strategy backfired badly. Head coach Joe Mazzulla, while disappointed with the missed opportunities, focused on remaining calm and correcting simple execution issues. The Celtics need to find a better balance in their offensive approach—relying less on volume shooting and more on high-quality looks.

Al Horford and Derrick White, who both had relatively quiet games, will need to contribute more consistently from deep. If the Celtics can shoot even at league-average levels, they have the firepower to even this series.

2. Knicks’ Defense and Grit

The Knicks have built their playoff identity around toughness and defensive effort. Their comeback in Game 1 was a masterclass in patience and hustle. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has instilled a strong defensive culture in the team, and it was on full display as they clamped down on the Celtics in the fourth quarter and overtime.

While their effort was admirable, Thibodeau acknowledged post-game that his team still needs to improve in rebounding and limiting second-chance points. If the Knicks can shore up those areas, they will be tough to beat.

Injury Updates

• Kristaps Porziņģis (Celtics): The big man was limited to just 13 minutes in Game 1 due to illness. He is expected to be available for Game 2, and his return to full form could make a significant difference, especially defensively and in floor spacing.

• Sam Hauser (Celtics): Listed as doubtful, his absence could weaken Boston’s bench scoring and limit their rotational flexibility.

• Knicks Roster: New York enters Game 2 with a fully healthy squad, which gives them a strategic edge in maintaining high energy levels, especially late in the game.

Players to Watch

Jayson Tatum (Celtics)

Tatum had a solid Game 1 but was clearly affected by the Celtics' overall offensive inefficiency. As the franchise player, he must set the tone tonight. Averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6 assists during the regular season, Tatum’s leadership and scoring will be key in avoiding a 0–2 deficit.

His ability to adapt under pressure will be tested. If he can get to the rim more often and create fouls rather than settle for contested threes, it could be the momentum-changer Boston desperately needs.

Jalen Brunson (Knicks)

Brunson was electric in Game 1, showing poise, confidence, and an ability to control the pace. His 29-point performance included clutch plays in the fourth quarter and overtime. Brunson is not only the heart of New York’s offense but also its brain—his ability to read the defense and make smart decisions under pressure continues to impress.

Expect Boston to tighten their defensive schemes around him in Game 2. Still, Brunson’s playmaking and leadership will be a major factor.

OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges (Knicks)

Anunoby’s scoring and versatility on both ends were major contributors in Game 1. His ability to guard multiple positions and still get buckets was critical. Bridges, meanwhile, proved clutch with his defensive awareness and hustle—the final steal was symbolic of New York’s never-give-up attitude.

Tactical Adjustments

For the Celtics, the most urgent need is to improve shot selection and reduce reliance on three-point volume. Incorporating more mid-range pull-ups, cuts to the basket, and interior post-ups could open up better looks from beyond the arc.

On the defensive side, they need to trap Brunson more effectively and limit second-chance opportunities by crashing the boards.

For the Knicks, maintaining composure early in the game will be crucial. They cannot afford another 20-point hole. Offensively, continuing to share the ball and finding open shots through ball movement will be essential. Defensively, forcing Boston into tough, early shots and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities will help them stay ahead.

Atmosphere and Intensity

With the TD Garden crowd expected to be loud and passionate, the Celtics will lean on their home support for energy. This is a franchise with a rich playoff tradition, and the fans will do everything they can to rally their team.

The Knicks, on the other hand, are playing with house money. Winning Game 1 on the road has taken some pressure off, but they know the job is far from finished. Expect a physical, high-intensity contest as both teams understand what’s at stake.

Predictions and Outlook

Boston is still considered the favorite for Game 2 despite the Game 1 loss. Oddsmakers have them as significant favorites, likely due to their strong home record and the belief that their shooting performance was an anomaly rather than the norm.

But New York’s confidence is sky-high, and they’ve shown they can handle adversity. If the Knicks can execute defensively and maintain composure, they have a real shot at taking a 2–0 lead home.

For the Celtics, this game is about resilience. A win would reset the series and restore momentum, while a loss would raise serious questions about their playoff future.

Final Thoughts

Game 2 between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks is shaping up to be another classic chapter in one of the NBA's most historic rivalries. With passion, pride, and playoff glory on the line, tonight’s battle promises intense moments, individual brilliance, and high drama. The stakes are high—and for one team, the path forward begins now.