NBA Playoffs Odds, Picks & Predictions: Friday (Celtics vs. Knicks)
We have just one NBA game on Friday, and it’s a big one. Can the Celtics win and force a Game 7? Or will the Knicks punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals? We’ll break down the matchup and share our best NBA bet.
Friday's Best NBA Playoff Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Boston Celtics at New York Knicks (-2.5) | O/U 210.5 (-110/-110)
The Celtics were able to grab a big lead and this time hold it for a 25-point win in Game 5. As they go the rest of the way without Jayson Tatum, it was their backcourt that provided the offensive power, with Derrick White leading the game with 36 points and Jaylen Brown adding 26.
They've elected to go with a smaller lineup, with Payton Pritchard getting more minutes and Sam Hauser back from an injury. They'll likely continue this with Kristaps Porzingis still not healthy and playing only 12 minutes in the last game.
The Celtics will continue to focus on the three-point shot, and if they make their threes, then they will be in a good position. In the two games they have won, they've shot over 40% from behind the arc. In the three losses, they shot below that.
The Knicks need one more solid performance from their players. They have the size advantage in the frontcourt, and they need to capitalize on it. They lost the points in the paint battle 36-26. If they manage that balance of inside and perimeter shooting, they can end the series on Friday night.
Both teams know what's at stake, and we'll see their best. These games have been higher scoring, and that's where we lean tonight.
Pick: Over 210.5 Points (-110)