In the 2025 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Boston Celtics face the New York Knicks in Game 2 on Wednesday, aiming to tie the series. The Knicks took a 1-0 lead with a 108-105 overtime victory in Game 1 on Monday, overcoming a 20-point deficit. The third-seeded Knicks (50-32) are trying to advance past the conference semifinals after being eliminated at this stage in the last two seasons. The second-seeded Celtics (61-21) hold a strong recent record against New York, winning eight of their last ten encounters.
Game 2 is scheduled for a 7 p.m. ET start at TD Garden in Boston. Historically, the two franchises have split their 14 prior playoff series matchups. According to recent betting lines, Boston is favored by 10.5 points, with the projected total points (over/under) set at 211. Analysis suggests one side of the point spread is favored in a significant percentage of simulated outcomes, and the combined total score may exceed 213 points.
Why the Celtics Can Level the Series
To avoid falling behind 0-2 in the series, Boston will likely look for a strong performance from Jayson Tatum. He delivered a significant contribution in Game 1 with a double-double, tallying 23 points, 16 rebounds, six assists, two steals, and a block. Tatum was also effective in the first round, recording three double-doubles against Orlando. Throughout the postseason, his per-game averages include 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.6 steals.
Jaylen Brown is another vital offensive force for the Celtics. This postseason, he averages 23 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and one steal. In Game 1 against New York, Brown put up 23 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. He notched two double-doubles in the first round, notably a 36-point, 10-rebound, five-assist effort in their Game 2 victory over Orlando.
Why the Knicks Can Extend Their Lead
For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson played a crucial role in their Game 1 comeback win. He finished the opener with 29 points, five assists, four rebounds, and two steals. This postseason, Brunson`s scoring has been prolific, averaging 31.1 points, along with 7.7 assists and four rebounds per contest. Highlights from the first round include a 40-point game in the series-clinching Game 6 against Detroit and a 32-point, 11-assist double-double in Game 4.
OG Anunoby also had a solid showing for New York in Game 1, contributing 29 points, four rebounds, three assists, and a steal in heavy minutes. His performance in the first round included 22 points, five rebounds, three steals, and two blocks in the decisive Game 6 win over the Pistons. Anunoby`s postseason averages stand at 19 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.3 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game.
Jasper Hawthorne