Game Details
- Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Time: 3:30 PM ET
- Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
- Broadcast: ABC
The Boston Celtics and New York Knicks face off in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup, with the Knicks holding a 2-0 series lead after two dramatic wins in Boston. The Celtics, the defending champions, now find themselves in a must-win situation as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden.
Series Recap & Key Storylines
Knicks Take Commanding 2-0 Lead
New York has stunned Boston with back-to-back comeback victories, erasing 20-point deficits in both games. Jalen Brunson has been clutch, while Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges have stepped up defensively. The Knicks now have a chance to take a 3-0 stranglehold on the series in front of their home crowd.
Celtics’ Shooting Woes
Boston has struggled offensively, particularly from three-point range, shooting just 25% from beyond the arc in Game 2. Jayson Tatum has been held to 18 points per game, a steep drop from his 33.5-point average against the Knicks in the regular season. The Celtics must find offensive rhythm to avoid falling into an insurmountable hole.
Madison Square Garden Atmosphere
The Knicks return home with momentum, and MSG will be electric. New York fans have waited decades for a deep playoff run, and a win here would put them one step closer to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000.
Key Matchups to Watch
Jalen Brunson vs. Jrue Holiday
Brunson has been the Knicks’ offensive leader, but Holiday’s defensive prowess could be key in slowing him down. If Holiday can disrupt Brunson’s rhythm, Boston has a chance to regain control.
Jayson Tatum vs. Mikal Bridges
Bridges has been excellent defensively, limiting Tatum’s effectiveness. Tatum must find his shot and attack the paint rather than settling for contested jumpers.
Karl-Anthony Towns vs. Kristaps Porzingis
Towns has been inconsistent, but his ability to stretch the floor could be crucial. Porzingis, dealing with injury concerns, must step up defensively and provide scoring support for Boston.
Game Odds
Boston Celtics – 5.5
New York Knicks 204
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 9, 2025
