New York Knicks vs Boston Celtics Picks and Predictions May 10th 2025

Stunning Turnaround: Knicks Take 2-0 Lead Over Celtics, But Focus Sharply on Game 3

The New York Knicks have stormed into a commanding 2-0 series lead against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals, securing two gutsy road wins. But as they prepare for Game 3 at Madison Square Garden, Coach Tom Thibodeau’s message is clear: stay focused and don’t get comfortable.

“It’s really irrelevant,” Thibodeau said about the series lead. “What we have to understand is what we have to do to win Game 3.”

Knicks’ Impressive Resilience Defines the Series So Far

Down by 20 points in both Games 1 and 2, the Knicks clawed their way back each time—demonstrating poise, determination, and a team-first mentality.

• Game 1: 108-105 OT win
• Game 2: 91-90 nail-biter

Their success has been a result of both strategic execution and mental toughness, qualities Thibodeau continually emphasizes.

Celtics Search for Answers After Back-to-Back Collapses

The Celtics entered the series as the No. 2 seed with a dominant 61-21 regular-season record, but now find themselves in a precarious 0-2 hole.

Coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the uphill battle:

“We’ve got to find a way to win. We understand our environment and what we’re up against.”

Key Issues for Boston:

• Shooting Woes: Boston is shooting just 35.6% from the field and 25% from deep.
• Turnovers: Costly loose-ball mistakes have disrupted their rhythm.
• Star Underperformance: Jayson Tatum is averaging only 18 PPG on a poor 28.6% shooting clip.

Despite solid efforts from Jaylen Brown (21.5 PPG) and Derrick White (19.5 PPG), the Celtics’ offense has been largely out of sync.

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Balanced Contributions Fuel Knicks’ Success

What’s working for the Knicks?

• Jalen Brunson: Leading with 23 PPG
• Josh Hart: Stepping up with 18.5 PPG and two-way grit
• Karl-Anthony Towns: Dominating the boards (17.5 PPG, 15 RPG)

New York has shot a respectable 42.8% from the field and an impressive 38.2% from three—outpacing Boston’s efficiency significantly. Check put the latest NBA Picks & Predictions from The Best Expert Handicappers

Coaching Philosophies Shape the Series Narrative

Thibodeau remains laser-focused on preparation, not hype:

“You have to earn it play after play. There’s no guarantee because you’re at home or because you’re up in the series.”

Meanwhile, Mazzulla emphasized accountability on both sides of the ball:

“It’s on me to call better plays. It’s on our guys to make better reads.”

What’s at Stake in Game 3?

Game 3 isn’t just another matchup—it’s a psychological pivot point. If the Knicks go up 3-0, the Celtics face near-insurmountable odds.

• For the Knicks: A win could all but seal the series.
• For the Celtics: It’s a must-win to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Conclusion: Knicks Stay Grounded While Celtics Fight for Survival

With the momentum clearly on their side, the Knicks have every reason to feel confident—but they’re not getting ahead of themselves. Thibodeau’s disciplined approach could be the edge they need to push further.

As for the Celtics, Game 3 will test their resolve, leadership, and ability to adapt under pressure.