Context:

The New York Knicks have spent their offseason preparing to face the Boston Celtics in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, focusing on strengthening their defense and offense to counteract Boston's strategies. Despite their efforts, the Knicks struggled against top-tier teams during the regular season, including four losses to the Celtics, making them underdogs in this series. Both teams face health challenges, with key players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown dealing with injuries, while the Knicks' Jalen Brunson also battles persistent ankle issues. Key players such as Mitchell Robinson for the Knicks and Payton Pritchard for the Celtics could significantly impact the series, as the Knicks look for opportunities to upset the favored Celtics. Ultimately, the Celtics are expected to win the series due to their superior depth, defense, and playoff experience, with predictions suggesting they will advance to the Conference Finals in six games.

Dive Deeper:

• The Knicks have tried to counter the Celtics by assembling a team with strong defensive wings and offensive capabilities, aiming to slow down Celtics stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown and match their scoring prowess.

• During the regular season, the Knicks' strategies did not pay off as they lost all four games against the Celtics and generally struggled against teams with winning records, resulting in a 15-23 record against such opponents.

• Injuries are a concern for both teams, with Celtics players like Brown and Tatum dealing with knee and wrist issues, respectively, while the Knicks' Brunson is affected by an ankle injury that impacted his regular-season availability.

• Mitchell Robinson's presence could be crucial for the Knicks as his size and defensive skills are expected to bolster their lineup against the Celtics' frontcourt, while Josh Hart's shooting consistency remains a pivotal factor.

• For the Celtics, Payton Pritchard's role as a defensive liability and his ability to contribute offensively will be tested, as the Knicks might target him to create favorable matchups for Jalen Brunson.

• The Celtics are favored to win the series due to their stronger defense, offensive firepower, depth, and championship experience, with betting odds heavily in their favor.

• Despite being underdogs, the Knicks have potential pathways to victory, contingent on exploiting Celtics' injuries and finding effective strategies during the games, but they are generally expected to lose in six games.