The Boston Celtics, the reigning champions of the 2023-24 NBA season, are set to defend their title against the New York Knicks at the TD Garden. The Celtics, led by the dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, clinched the championship with an impressive 82-win campaign, including a dominant 64-18 regular season record and a memorable postseason run.
Boston’s preseason has been a testament to their strength, with a commendable 4-1 record and an average of 121.8 points per game. As they gear up for the season, they have maintained their core structure and bolstered it with the additions of Lonnie Walker IV and Baylor Scheierman. Despite the absence of Kristaps Porzingis due to a foot injury, the team is in capable hands with Tatum and Brown, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, leading the charge.
Last season, the Knicks achieved a 50-32 record, which placed them in second place in the East. However, they were unsuccessful in the semifinals. They have been quite active during the offseason, reshaping their roster with the additions of Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. Nevertheless, Mitchell Robinson (ankle) and Precious Achiuwa (hamstring) are uncertain. The crew will be under the leadership of Jalen Brunson.
The Celtics have been a force to reckon with in their recent matchups, winning five of the last six meetings. The Knicks, on the other hand, have only managed to secure one victory in April. The Celtics have also shown their dominance in home games, winning 12 of the last 15 contests against the Knicks.
Given the Celtics’ excellent performance, home court advantage, and the Knicks’ injury concerns, the optimal wager for this game is the Celtics spread -5.5. Even without Porzingis, the Celtics possess the necessary talent and depth to overcome the spread.