The Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks have reignited their rivalry in the 2025 NBA playoffs. The series kicked off with an exciting Game 1, where the Knicks came from behind to beat the Celtics 108-105 in overtime. This win allowed New York to take an early advantage in the series.

In a surprising twist, the Celtics struggled with their shooting, missing an NBA record 45 three-pointers. They ended the game with only 15 successful attempts out of 60. Even so, Boston remains a strong favorite to win the series, with Game 2 coming up on Wednesday.
This playoff series marks the first clash between these two teams since 2013. The Celtics secured their spot by defeating the Orlando Magic in five games, while the Knicks took six games to eliminate the Detroit Pistons.
Both teams boast All-NBA stars. Jayson Tatum of the Celtics averaged impressive stats—31.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists—against the Magic. Meanwhile, Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 31.5 points and 8.2 assists in their playoff run against Detroit.
The Celtics and Knicks have a storied history, often filled with intense matchups. As they prepare for Game 2, fans eagerly await to see how the teams adapt after their first encounter. The Celtics’ recent inconsistency raises questions—can they regain their shooting touch? On the other hand, the Knicks need to capitalize on their surprising Game 1 victory.
Looking ahead to Game 2, the Knicks will need contributions from all players, especially Karl-Anthony Towns, who struggled after getting into early foul trouble. The team can’t rely on OG Anunoby scoring 29 points each game. A solid game plan will be crucial for New York to keep momentum in the series.
In terms of odds, the Celtics are still considered the favorites at -340, while the Knicks sit at +270. With Game 2 on the horizon, it’s a pivotal moment for both franchises, and the stakes are high as they vie for NBA supremacy.
As of recent data, a Yahoo Sports poll revealed that 68% of fans believe the Celtics will come back to win the series, reflecting their strong historical performance. However, with the Knicks’ recent upset, anything can happen in this thrilling playoff battle.
Stay tuned as this rivalry unfolds and witness who will emerge victorious!