NBA Game Picks & Analysis
New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics
Knicks vs. Celtics – Game 2 Preview
Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. ET • TD Garden, Boston
Our Pick: Knicks +10.5
Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals tips off tonight at TD Garden, where the Boston Celtics will host the New York Knicks, who currently lead the series 1-0. After an electrifying Game 1, which saw the Knicks rally from a 20-point deficit to clinch a 108–105 overtime victory, tonight’s contest is expected to be equally competitive.
Despite oddsmakers setting a sizable +10.5 spread against the Knicks, New York has demonstrated that they possess the necessary elements to keep this game well within reach, if not outright win again. A key factor to consider is their defensive tenacity, highlighted in Game 1 when they restricted the Celtics to just 35.1% shooting from the field and an abysmal 25% from beyond the arc. This defensive performance wasn’t merely a stroke of luck; rather, it underscored the Knicks’ deliberate strategy to disrupt Boston’s rhythm by aggressively contesting perimeter shots and forcing difficult looks.
Offensively, the Knicks are riding high with significant contributions from their stars. Jalen Brunson, who poured in 29 points in the series opener, continues to anchor the team’s attack, averaging 31.1 points and 7.7 assists per game during the postseason. Alongside Brunson, OG Anunoby has stepped up spectacularly, matching Brunson’s 29 points in Game 1 while also making pivotal defensive plays, including the game-sealing steal from Jaylen Brown in overtime.
Moreover, the Knicks boast a strong inside presence, thanks largely to Karl-Anthony Towns, who secured a critical double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds in the opener. His ability to control the paint, combined with the perimeter play of Brunson and Anunoby, gives the Knicks a balanced attack that can challenge Boston’s formidable defense.
Boston, while talented, faces pressure after their reliance on three-point shooting failed dramatically in Game 1. With Kristaps Porziņģis listed as probable but potentially limited due to illness, the Celtics could struggle again offensively.
Given the Knicks’ momentum, balanced scoring, and robust defensive scheme, they are strategically positioned not just to cover the +10.5 spread but to genuinely threaten the Celtics with another upset at TD Garden.
Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Nuggets vs. Thunder – Game 2 Preview
Tuesday, 9:30 p.m. ET • Paycom Center, Oklahoma City
Our Pick: Nuggets +10
The Denver Nuggets head into Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals with confidence and momentum, having secured a dramatic 121–119 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the series opener. Despite entering tonight’s matchup as substantial 10-point underdogs, Denver’s recent form and key tactical advantages suggest they are more than capable of covering the spread once again.
Game 1 highlighted Denver’s resilience, particularly in clutch moments. Nikola Jokić, an MVP-caliber presence, continues to display why he’s considered among the league’s elite, delivering an incredible performance with 42 points, 22 rebounds, and 6 assists. Jokić’s ability to dominate both offensively and on the boards gives Denver a clear focal point and keeps them competitive in any scenario.
Complementing Jokić’s excellence was Aaron Gordon, who played heroically in Game 1 with 22 points and 14 rebounds, including a decisive three-pointer that clinched the victory. Gordon’s physicality and defensive tenacity make him essential in limiting Oklahoma City’s athletic forwards, ensuring Denver maintains a competitive edge inside.
The rebounding battle proved decisive in Game 1 and is expected to remain critical in tonight’s contest. Denver dominated the boards, outrebounding Oklahoma City 63–43, a significant advantage that helped the Nuggets neutralize the Thunder’s high-powered offense. Maintaining this rebounding dominance will be essential for the Nuggets to control the tempo and reduce second-chance scoring opportunities for Oklahoma City.
Oklahoma City, on the other hand, faces substantial pressure to adjust after a frustrating finish to Game 1. Despite strong performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 33 points, their tactical missteps—particularly the ill-timed fouling strategy at the end—revealed vulnerabilities in late-game scenarios. Furthermore, Oklahoma City has consistently struggled to cover spreads against Denver at home, going just 1–6 ATS in their last seven matchups at Paycom Center.
Overall, Denver enters Game 2 not only with confidence from their recent victory but also with distinct tactical and psychological advantages. While Oklahoma City is expected to respond aggressively, Denver’s combination of strong rebounding, clutch performances, and historical success against the spread positions them ideally to cover tonight’s sizable +10 spread.
