HOW TO BET: BOSTON CELTICS AT NEW YORK KNICKS
As much as I’d like to take the Knicks +5.5 in Game 3 on May 10th, I believe the best value lies in New York to win the series at +107. You’re telling me the Knicks just need to avoid losing 4 out of 5 games—and I get plus money? That’s a great spot to increase your bet size and take a smart risk on a solid team like New York.
The Knicks have the most clutch player in the NBA this season in Jalen Brunson, and Mikal Bridges has stepped up as a real clutch defensive presence for them as well.
So why are the Knicks still getting plus money to win the series?
First off, yes—the Celtics were up by 20 in each game and controlled long stretches. They’ve got a core that’s already proven capable of winning a title. But here’s the thing: Boston will need to win 4 games by double digits while shooting 45–50% from three to close this series out. I don’t see that happening even 30% of the time, let alone 50%.
Winning close games at this stage of the playoffs doesn’t happen by chance. When the Knicks are in a close game with five minutes left, they’ll have more confidence than Boston, despite last year’s Celtics team winning it all.
The Knicks have a different level of toughness, and there’s no doubt they can hit the game-winning shot and get the critical stop on defense. As talented as Tatum and Brown are, they won’t be able to finish off the Knicks in tight games. Boston’s best shot is building a big lead and holding on.
I don’t foresee the Celtics blowing out the Knicks four times, especially not with two of those games on the road. Betting on the Knicks to win 2 out of the next 5 games at +107 is an excellent value play.