Knicks vs Celtics: A Clutch Game in the Eastern Conference Semi-finals
Monday, May 12, the New York Knicks (2-1) welcome the Boston Celtics (1-2) for match 4 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals. Here’s a detailed preview of the showdown, including injury updates, starting lineups, over/under predictions, and best NBA bets.
Where to Watch
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Key Players & Injury Updates
Celtics:
- Sam Hauser is uncertain due to an injury.
Knicks:
- RAS (Reportedly Available Soon)
Starting Lineups
Celtics:
- PG: Jrue Holiday
- SG: Jaylen Brown
- SF: Derrick White
- PF: Jayson Tatum
- C: Kristaps Porzingis
Knicks:
- PG: Jalen Brunson
- SG: Josh Hart
- SF: Mikal Bridges
- PF: Og Anunoby
- C: Karl-Anthony Towns
Over/Under Predictions & Best NBA Bets
Expect a defensive showdown, with the series so far averaging around 212-213 points. Bookmakers currently set the total at 208-209, signaling confidence in a scoring increase. However, given the Knicks’ resilience and the Celtics’ strong defense, I predict a lower-scoring affair.
- Celtics: Under 106.5 points (1.85 at Sports bet)
- Knicks: Over 102.5 points (1.95 at Parions Sport)
Player Props
- Jaylen Brown Under 21.5 points: Despite recent underperformances, Boston will look to defend him aggressively.
- Karl-Anthony Towns Over 11.5 rebounds: Averaging 15.7 boards per game in the series, Towns is primed for another dominant performance.
- Jalen Brunson Over 27.5 points: As the Knicks’ go-to scorer, Brunson should take charge in a crucial home game.
Principal Bet
- Jalen Brunson Over 27.5 points : 1.78 at Parions Sports
Match Prediction & Betting Odds
Despite the Celtics’ impressive comeback in Game 3, I expect the Knicks to bounce back and cover the spread at home. A close, low-scoring game is likely, with Boston favored but the Knicks keeping it competitive.
- Spread: Knicks +6.5 (1.70) | Celtics -6.5 (1.75)
- Total: 208.5 – Over: 1.75 | Under: 1.75
- Moneyline: Knicks: 3.25 | Celtics: 1.38
Did You Know?
This is the second playoff meeting between the Knicks and Celtics, with the latter winning the previous series in 1985.
Pro Tips
- Avoid overreacting to Boston’s blowout win in Game 3. Expect both teams to tighten up defensively in this crucial matchup.
- Back the underdog Knicks with confidence, as they’ll be eager to reclaim home-court advantage.
Don’t Miss Out!
Stick around for more coverage of the Eastern Conference semi-finals, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments section below. Stay tuned for the biggest NBA stories, analysis, and betting tips!