Image Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

Knicks vs. Celtics Preview – Boston Stay Alive Without Tatum, MSG Awaits Decider As New York Seeks Redemption

Madison Square Garden Showdown to Decide Who Goes to the Edge in the Semi Finals.

Image Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

The New York Knicks missed a crucial chance to close out the series on Wednesday, falling short against a gritty Celtics squad. Boston Celtics won game 5 forcing game 6 in the Knicks vs. Celtics series. Though, New York still has the advantage, but they will have to tread carefully, especially at the Madison Square Garden, their home court.

New York Knicks Preview

While the Knicks have shown poise throughout the series, their Game 5 performance lacked the rhythm and edge that defined their earlier wins. Despite facing a depleted Boston side, the Knicks couldn’t get it done. They still have the home court advantage going into the Friday night game.

Boston Celtics Preview

The Celtics finally showed fight in the semi-finals after losing two consecutive games. Despite not having Jayson Tatum, the 18 time NBA champions took the fight to the New York Knicks. Derrick White stepped up big time and dropped 34 points, shooting 9-16 from the field. He also shot 7-13 from beyond the arc.

Most 3PM this postseason:

38 — Derrick White
35 — Anthony Edwards

Both shooting better than 38%. pic.twitter.com/TGp5GiSYRe
— AntMuse (@AE5_Muse) May 15, 2025

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Jaylen Brown was also equally important in the win as he scored 26 points. The defense and offense of Boston clicked for the first time this good in the Knicks vs. Celtics series. The visitors now have a chance to make a comeback for the Eastern Conference Finals.

Knicks vs. Celtics Injury Report

New York Knicks

The Knicks have a healthy squad to take on the Boston Celtics. However, the side looked fatigued and tired in the game 5 raising concerns. The New York Knicks already had a six game series against the Detroit Pistons in the last round.

Boston Celtics

Jayson Tatum is out for the remainder of the season with a torn Achilles, a devastating blow that shifts Boston’s playoff strategy entirely. A big rehabilitation awaits for the 27-year-old, and it remains to be seen if and when the forward will hit the court next year.

Knicks vs. Celtics – Head-to-Head

The New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics have taken on each other 9 times this season. Boston has 6 wins, while New York has three wins. And all those three wins have come from the current playoffs’ series.