With the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks heading into a pivotal Game 3, basketball fans are eager for a comprehensive Celtics vs Knicks prediction. Let’s break down what to expect from this thrilling matchup at Madison Square Garden and examine key trends, expert picks, and player analysis to guide your expectations.

Series Overview: Knicks Lead, but Celtics Still Dangerous

As the Eastern Conference semifinals intensify, the Knicks have stunned the basketball world by taking a 2-0 lead over the defending champion Celtics. Both games in Boston saw the Knicks erase 20-point deficits, thanks to clutch play from Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson. For context, teams that go up 2-0 on the road win the series over 85% of the time, placing immense pressure on Boston (CBSSports.com preview).

Key Factors Influencing Celtics vs Knicks Prediction

Celtics: Shooting Struggles and Identity Crisis

Despite building big leads, the Celtics’ cold perimeter shooting has cost them dearly. Boston is shooting just 25% from beyond the arc in this series, making only 25 of 100 three-point attempts. This is a stark drop compared to their regular season percentage. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have both struggled in fourth quarters, combining for just one made field goal in clutch minutes—a worrying sign for a team known for its late-game execution (NBA.com Film Study).

Kristaps Porzingis’ health remains a concern, and Al Horford’s extended minutes have not compensated for the lack of inside and outside scoring. The model at CBSSports.com projects that while Boston should shoot better, adjustments are crucial to avoid another collapse.

Knicks: Clutch Defense and Balanced Attack

New York’s resilience has defined the series. Mikal Bridges has made consecutive game-sealing plays, while Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns have provided steady offense and rebounding. Mitchell Robinson’s defensive prowess has swung key minutes in favor of New York, limiting Boston’s inside presence and sparking transition opportunities. OG Anunoby has frustrated Tatum, holding him to only one made shot as his primary defender (The Athletic live blog).

Most notably, Jalen Brunson continues to dominate the fourth quarter, leading the league in playoff fourth-quarter scoring. The team’s confidence is growing, and the Madison Square Garden atmosphere will provide a further boost.

Betting Odds and Expert Predictions

According to the CBSSports.com experts, the Celtics enter Game 3 as 6-point favorites, despite their recent struggles. The over/under is set at 208 points. Advanced models give a slight edge to the Knicks’ strong home form, but Boston’s higher regular-season shot quality suggests that an outburst is possible if the shots fall.

For bettors, the Knicks have covered 7 of their last 11 games, and Boston’s road record remains excellent. Still, with the Celtics facing a must-win scenario, urgency will be at an all-time high. For more expert breakdowns, check out the NBA.com Film Study and continuous Game 3 live analysis at The Athletic.

Players to Watch

• Jayson Tatum (Celtics): Needs a bounce-back game after shooting under 30% so far this series.
• Jaylen Brown (Celtics): Imposed his will early, but disappeared late in both losses.
• Jalen Brunson (Knicks): The undisputed closer, leading all players in fourth-quarter postseason points.
• Mitchell Robinson (Knicks): Game-changing presence inside, dominating the boards and stifling Boston’s drives.
• Mikal Bridges (Knicks): Not only delivering on defense but also scoring timely buckets to catalyze comebacks.

Celtics vs Knicks Prediction: Game 3 Outlook

Given their championship pedigree and the law of averages, Boston is due for improved perimeter shooting. Expect an aggressive start and adjustments from head coach Joe Mazzulla. However, the Knicks’ momentum, home-court energy, and clutch identity give them a real shot at pushing the Celtics to the brink.

Our prediction: The Celtics control much of the early tempo, but the Knicks’ depth and defensive resolve keep it tight. Expect another nail-biter—Boston narrowly avoids disaster, but New York covers the spread.

Final Score Prediction:

• Celtics 104, Knicks 101

Final Thoughts

Game 3 of the Celtics vs Knicks series promises all the drama NBA fans crave. With elite defensive matchups, superstar showdowns, and strategic adjustments at play, this battle could define both teams’ playoff destinies. Whether you’re looking for betting angles or just great basketball, keep your eyes on Madison Square Garden.

For in-depth film breakdowns, stats, and more expert Celtics vs Knicks prediction coverage, visit authoritative sources like NBA.com and The Athletic.