Celtics Host Knicks in Crucial Game 5 of NBA Playoffs

BOSTON, Mass. — The New York Knicks will face the Boston Celtics tonight in a pivotal Game 5 of the NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals. The game is set to tip off at 7 p.m. ET at TD Garden.

The Knicks lead the best-of-seven series 3-1 after defeating the Celtics 121-113 in Game 4. The Celtics will be without star player Jayson Tatum, who is sidelined due to an Achilles injury.

In the absence of Tatum, the Celtics are looking for strong performances from their remaining roster. Kristaps Porzingis, who has been limited by illness in this series, told reporters, “My energy was good and I felt like I could go a bit more up and down, so that was a positive. We’re going to go out there and leave it all out there and live with the results.” Projections indicate that Porzingis could score between 15 to 19 points while also contributing on the boards.

Mikal Bridges from the Knicks has also been a key player to watch. Despite experiencing fluctuating performances on the road, his Game 5 predictions are favorable, suggesting he could exceed 14.5 points, especially considering Boston’s struggles with defensive matchups without Tatum.

Meanwhile, the Knicks are looking to maintain their momentum after three strong performances in the series. New York has been an underdog in all four games but has managed to cover the spread and win in tough Boston territory. Matchups indicate the Knicks could advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000 if they win tonight.

The Celtics are favored to win tonight’s game by 4.5 points with an over/under set at 207.5 points, according to the latest betting odds. As the teams gear up for what could be a dramatic night, Boston will need help from players like Jaylen Brown, who has historically stepped up in Tatum’s absence.

All eyes will be on the court as both teams aim for victory and a chance to move forward in the playoffs.