Celtics vs Knicks – Game 5 Betting Preview

Wednesday, May 14 | TD Garden | Series: NYK leads 3-1

The Boston Celtics return to TD Garden down 3-1 in the series and now face elimination without Jayson Tatum. The All-NBA forward suffered a ruptured Achilles in Game 4, leaving Boston in survival mode. But don’t count them out too quickly.

The Celtics went 8–2 without Tatum during the regular season, a stat that shows just how deep and versatile this roster is. Jaylen Brown becomes the primary option, and he’s fully capable of delivering big scoring nights. Kristaps Porziņģis, Derrick White, and Jrue Holiday will need to step up on both ends, especially against a Knicks team riding serious momentum.

New York, meanwhile, has Jalen Brunson playing at a superstar level. He’s averaging 28 points per game in the series and has been the most reliable closer. The Knicks’ defense has tightened in the second halves of games, and their role players OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart continue to make timely plays.

Best Bets:

Knicks +4.5 (Confidence: High)

The Knicks have covered in three of four games and won two straight outright. Catching over two possessions in a closeout game even on the road is strong value.

Knicks ML +160 (Sprinkle)

If Brunson stays hot and the Knicks limit turnovers, they absolutely can finish the job. Boston’s home-court edge is real, but the absence of Tatum shifts the balance. +160 is worth a small moneyline play.

Over 207.5 (Lean)

Without Tatum, Boston might push pace to generate offense in transition. New York has also shot the ball well in TD Garden. This could creep over the total late if fouling comes into play.

Final Score Prediction: Knicks 113, Celtics 108

Total: 221 – Over hits

Best Bets: Knicks +4.5 | Knicks ML | Over

The Knicks close out the series behind another masterclass from Jalen Brunson and smart, physical team defense. Boston puts up a fight at home — and Brown goes for 30+ — but without Tatum, they fall just short. New York moves on to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years.