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Boston Celtics Set to Challenge New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden

Celtics' Recent Performance


As the Boston Celtics prepare for their upcoming playoff clash against the New York Knicks, they bring a mixed bag of recent performances. The Green Machine has shown resilience and skill, particularly in their commanding victory over the Orlando Magic, where they scored 120 points with an impressive field goal percentage of 57 percent. However, their recent games against the Knicks have been closely contested. In Game 1 of this series, despite leading for most of the match and having a strong bench contribution with 24 points, they fell short in overtime.


BOSTON, MA - MAY 7: Luke Kornet #40 of the Boston Celtics rebounds the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Round 2 Game 2 on May 7, 2025 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Celtics' defensive prowess remains a key strength; they've consistently kept opponents under pressure with effective rebounding and blocking strategies. Their ability to convert fast-break opportunities will be crucial as they face off against a Knicks team known for its aggressive playstyle.


Key Strategies for Victory


For Boston to secure victory at Madison Square Garden, maintaining offensive efficiency is paramount. The C's need to capitalize on second-chance opportunities and improve their three-point shooting accuracy which was only 25 percent in Game 1 against the Knicks. Additionally, minimizing turnovers will be essential as these have previously allowed opponents easy scoring chances.


BOSTON, MA - MAY 7: Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks handles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics during Round 2 Game 2 on May 7, 2025 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

Defensively, containing the Knicks' perimeter shooters while dominating inside will be critical. The Celtics must leverage their rebounding advantage—having out-rebounded opponents significantly in past games—to control possession and dictate game tempo.


The stage is set for an exciting showdown at Madison Square Garden on May 12th at 7:30 PM Eastern Time. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN as both teams vie for playoff supremacy.


BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 07:  Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics dunks the ball against the New York Knicks with 18 seconds remaining during the fourth quarter in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at TD Garden on May 07, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

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