Celtics and Knicks Renew Rivalry in Eastern Conference Semifinals

BOSTON, Massachusetts — The Boston Celtics and New York Knicks are set to face off in the Eastern Conference semifinals starting Monday night at TD Garden.

This highly anticipated matchup marks the first playoff meeting between the storied rivals since 2013, when the Knicks eliminated the Celtics in the first round. The Celtics, defending their title, swept the regular-season series 4-0, but the playoffs promise a different intensity.

The Celtics enter the series after defeating the Orlando Magic in five games, overcoming injuries along the way. Jayson Tatum excelled after recovering from a wrist injury, leading his team with an average of 31.5 points per game in the first round.

The Knicks, however, had a more challenging route, battling through a gritty six-game series against the Detroit Pistons. Jalen Brunson‘s last-second 3-pointer helped clinch the series in Game 6, while the team’s resilience became a talking point, with players stepping up under pressure.

Experts are now considering key matchups for this series. Many believe the Celtics will seek to exploit the defensive weaknesses of the Knicks, particularly targeting star players Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.

“The Celtics can attack Towns on the perimeter, where he’s vulnerable,” said Jay King, an NBA writer for The Athletic. “Tatum will be looking to capitalize on that.”

Conversely, the Knicks need to find ways to maintain their momentum from the first round. They need A-plus performances from their stars while stepping up defensively. “The possession battle will be crucial,” mentioned James Edwards III, a Knicks reporter, emphasizing the need for rebounding and limited turnovers against a potent Celtics offense.

In preparation for the matchup, both teams have been fitting adjustments into their strategies. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla is focused on minimizing fouls against Brunson, known for drawing contact and getting to the free-throw line. Meanwhile, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau needs to find a way to ensure Towns is engaged in offensive plays.

Health is also a concern; Celtics guard Jrue Holiday’s status is uncertain after a hamstring injury sidelined him during the last games of the first round. If he isn’t ready to play, the Celtics will adjust their defensive strategies accordingly.

With both teams having ample talent and storylines leading into this matchup, the expectations from fans and analysts are high. “Boston versus New York, you don’t get too much better than that,” said Jaylen Brown of the Celtics.

As tip-off approaches, both teams’ preparation and execution will be under the spotlight, paving the way for a thrilling series.