As the 2025 NBA Playoffs heat up, the anticipation surrounding the Eastern Conference semifinal series between the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics is palpable. Analysts from The Post have weighed in on what fans can expect from this thrilling matchup. With players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the Celtics, the Knicks face a formidable challenge in their quest for victory.
Stefan Bondy believes that the Celtics are simply too strong, too deep, and too skilled at exploiting mismatches against the Knicks. He suggests that New York's best chance for success lies in hoping Boston experiences an extended shooting slump—a situation he deems unlikely. His prediction for the series? Celtics in 5.
Peter Botte notes that the Knicks’ offseason overhaul was strategically designed with the Celtics in mind. However, his observations from the regular-season games indicate that the gap in talent remains significant. Although Jalen Brunson and the Knicks managed to push through the Pistons series, Botte believes they are ill-prepared to face the defending champions, who are poised for a repeat. His prediction echoes Bondy: Celtics in 5.
Zach Braziller points out the Knicks' fortune in advancing past the inexperienced Pistons but warns that they will be overmatched by the Celtics. He emphasizes that only a series of injuries to key Celtics players could alter the dynamics and make this a competitive series. His prediction? Once again, Celtics in 5.
Brian Lewis attributes the Knicks' potential downfall to the star power of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, alongside head coach Tom Thibodeau’s reluctance to utilize his bench effectively. Despite Brunson's heroics, especially while managing a shaky ankle, the Knicks' over-reliance on a few key players could lead to exhaustion as the series progresses. Lewis predicts a Celtics in 6 outcome.
Jared Schwartz believes the Knicks will perform better than they did in the regular season, making the series more competitive. However, he is concerned about the excessive isolation plays from Brunson and the inconsistency from players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges. He also points to the Celtics' depth, particularly with Sixth Man of the Year Payton Pritchard, as a decisive factor. His prediction leans towards Celtics in 6.
Mike Vaccaro reflects on the Knicks' insistence that they are better than their 0-for-4 record against the Celtics during the regular season. He acknowledges the potential for a compelling narrative if the Knicks can prove their doubters wrong. However, he remains cautious about their chances, suggesting that fans shouldn’t hold their breath for an upset.
As the Knicks prepare to face off against the Celtics, several critical factors will influence the series outcome. These include the depth of both teams, the performance of key players, and the ability of the Knicks to adapt their strategy to counter the Celtics’ strengths.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as The Post continues to cover the Knicks in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. For those interested in insider insights, consider subscribing to the "Inside the Knicks" newsletter and joining "Expert Take" for text updates on the series.
