New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics

On Monday, a storied rivalry reignites as the Boston Celtics welcome the New York Knicks for game one of their best-of-seven Eastern Conference semi-final series at TD Garden.

The defending NBA champions advanced past the Orlando Magic in the first round, securing a 4-1 series victory, while the Knicks overcame a tenacious Detroit Pistons squad in six games.

Against a robust Orlando team, the Celtics proved their mettle, shooting nearly 50% from the field (46.9). They capitalized on the Magic’s aggressive defense, frequently posting up and drawing fouls, which led to 29 free throws per 100 field goal attempts.

Under Joe Mazzulla’s guidance, Boston’s defense was formidable, allowing the fewest points per game (93.6) in the opening round. The Celtics dominated at home, winning their last eight playoff games at TD Garden and outscoring Orlando in seven of eight quarters.

Their +12.8 point differential ranks third in the ongoing NBA playoffs, with Boston holding opponents to 100 points or fewer in every first-round game.

In the regular season, the Celtics swept the Knicks 4-0, largely thanks to their sharpshooting, sinking 39 more three-pointers than New York—a differential among the largest in any NBA regular season series since the three-point line was introduced.

New York needed a full team effort—and some strong starts—to hold off a relentless Pistons squad that fought back in nearly every game. But in the end, the Knicks got the job done, securing their place in the second round for the third straight year. Now, they’re aiming for their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000.

However, history hasn’t been kind to them in the second round. Under Tom Thibodeau, they’ve dropped their last six road playoff games at this stage, including three losses to the Indiana Pacers last season, which ultimately led to their elimination in a heartbreaking Game 7.

One key factor in their first-round victory over the Pistons was their size advantage. The Knicks ranked fifth in blocks per game (5.7), using their defensive presence to control the paint. They’ve also been solid at defending the perimeter, allowing the sixth-lowest opponent three-point rate (40.7%) during the regular season—a strength they’ll need against Boston’s high-powered offense.

While the Celtics have had the upper hand lately, the Knicks can draw some confidence from their last playoff win at TD Garden—a Game 6 victory in the 2013 first round that sent them to the second round. Can they channel that same energy this time around?