The New York Knicks (34-22) host the Boston Celtics (44-12) during a late Saturday game. Although there is a rivalry between these two, the game hasn’t quite felt like that in recent history. It’s been a while since both of these Eastern Conference teams looked like legitimate contenders in a long time.
However, the visitors control this regular season series heading in. Even with a better-looking team from the hosts, the visiting side holds a 3-0 lead this season. But their last encounter at MSG ended with a four-point difference. Especially with both teams looking refreshed out of the All-Star Break, this one could come down to the wire.
Do you predict a close match, or are the visitors going back home after a commanding win?
Boston Celtics vs New York Knicks Betting Odds and Details
| Team | Spread | Total | MoneyLine |
| Boston Celtics | -6 -115 |
O 223.5 -112 |
-225 |
| New York Knicks | +6 -105 |
U 223.5 -108 |
+185 |
| ** Odds Courtesy of DraftKings SportsBook** | |||
Fixture: Boston Celtics @ New York Knicks
Date And Time: February 24, 2024 @ 8:30 p.m. EST
Location: Madison Square Garden in New York, New York
Key Stats
New York Knicks (Averages)
Points: 114.4
Points Allowed: 109.7
Field Goal Efficiency: 41.6/89.0 for 46.7%
Three-Pont Efficiency: 13.0/35.2 for 37.0%
Free Throw Efficiency: 18.2/23.2 for 78.5%
Rebounds: 12.7 Offensive, 33.1 Defensive, 45.8 Combined
Assists: 23.7
Steals: 7.4
Blocks: 3.9
Turnovers: 12.4
Field Goal Efficiency Against: 40.8/86.4 for 47.2%
Three-Point Efficiency Against: 12.8/34.6 for 36.9%
Free Throw Efficiency Against: 15.3/20.1 for 76.1%
Rebounds Against: 9.8 Offensive, 30.4 Defensive, 40.3 Combined
New York needed the All-Star Break. But they are as healthy as they are going to be at this point. While unlikely, some fans hold out hope for Julius Randle and OG Anunoby and their return. But with so little time left before the playoffs begin, even incorporating them back into the lineup would be a challenge. Meanwhile, before the injury bug, the New York Knicks played some of the best basketball in the NBA. But it remains to be seen if they can capture that magic again. However, tonight against the Boston Celtics is a crucial test. Especially, as they look to avoid a regular season sweep.
10 minutes of Jalen Brunson highlights.
King of NY 👑 🎥 pic.twitter.com/gjtST2Vu9N
— BrunsonMuse (@BrunsonMuse) May 16, 2023
But make zero mistake about it, Jalen Brunson runs this New York Knicks team. Although many claim you can’t win a championship with a guard being your best player, Brunson may prove to be the exception. Usually, you need your best player to play at the three or the four position. However, with enough frontcourt help, again this may be a non-issue. For example, Isaiah Hartenstein averaged 31.8 minutes per game in January. Ultimately, an Achilles injury limited for large parts of February, but he looks good to go now. Additionally, Precious Achiuwa is establishing himself down low. Look for him to improve with an increased role.
Boston Celtics (Averages)
Points: 120.8
Points Allowed: 110.6
Field Goal Efficiency: 43.5/90.2 for 48.2%
Three-Pont Efficiency: 16.4/42.8 for 38.3%
Free Throw Efficiency: 17.5/21.6 for 80.8%
Rebounds: 10.6 Offensive, 36.5 Defensive, 47.1 Combined
Assists: 26.2
Steals: 6.4
Blocks: 6.6
Turnovers: 11.9
Field Goal Efficiency Against: 41.5/92.6 for 44.9%
Three-Point Efficiency Against: 13.2/37.6 for 35.2%
Free Throw Efficiency Against: 14.4/18.9 for 75.9%
Rebounds Against: 11.3 Offensive, 32.7 Defensive, 43.9 Combined
Boston has an all-around good team. They are on a seven-game winning streak that dates back to before the All-Star Break. However, the New York Knicks stand in the way of making it eight. But we know how good this team is. The question remains if they can get over the final hump. Unfortunately, they are victims of their own success at this point. Even with a win, people will claim it’s not good enough. Furthermore, a loss furthers the narrative of this team not being ready for the bigger stages. Ultimately, this cast needs to win May and June to silence their critics.
Jayson Tatum NBA Finals Highlights🔥 https://://t.co/307b4eFYh5 pic.twitter.com/ps1ilUbcoW
— ☆𝘏𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘦𝘙𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘎𝘖𝘋☆ (@JalenCarterDPOY) February 18, 2024
Jaylen Brown averages 22.0 points a night. His athleticism and versatility are crucial on both ends of the court. As a capable and willing defender, he willingly takes on a Swiss-army knife role. But this team centers itself around Jayson Tatum. The All-Star hears the critics. Luckily he appears focused on winning and helping his team. Instead of focusing on what media members say, he’s more worried about getting stops and running the offense against the New York Knicks.
Game Prediction
Although home court is important, this game is more about two good, well-coached teams battling it out. Even though the visitors have more star power, the collective of the New York Knicks should be enough to keep things interesting. However, I am not picking them to win outright, this is a coin-flip game. Therefore, I am picking the hosts to keep tonight’s matchup within the spread.
Furthermore, both defenses play night in and night out. Especially with what’s on the line and the end in sight, over 220 points seems like a reach, let alone what the actual point total is. Regardless the play tonight is to pick the New York Knicks to cover and the game total to hit the under.
Final Pick
New York Knicks +6 and Under 223.5
About the Author
Gabriel is a lifelong sports fan. Pick a sport, and he’ll enjoy talking about it with you! From football to soccer, combat sports, and volleyball! You can follow Gabriel on Twitter @BigTenGabriel to enjoy all of his great content. Remember to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where we do several shows daily. Also, check out our main page by clicking here! For more fantasy-specific sports content, visit our Total Apex Fantasy Sports website!
