ðĪ SIGN UP AND GET UPTP $1,000 IN BONUS CREDITS! https://www.vaultsportshq.com/preferr... Knicks vs. Celtics Game 3 Pre-Game Analysis Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics arrives at Madison Square Garden with the Knicks holding a stunning 2-0 series lead. The defending champion Celtics find themselves in unfamiliar territory, desperately needing a win to avoid a 3-0 deficit that has historically been insurmountable. With the series shifting to New York, both teams face critical adjustments and mounting pressure in what promises to be a high-stakes, emotionally charged contest. Series Recap & Context The Knicks have seized momentum by winning both games in Boston, capitalizing on the Celticsâ shooting woes and executing in crunch time. Bostonâs offense, built around high-volume three-point shooting, has sputtered: the Celtics have shot just 35.05% and 36.17% from the field in the first two games, well below their season average of 46.02%. Their three-point struggles are even more pronounced, missing 75 threes over two games-an NBA playoff record. In contrast, New York has outshot Boston and outperformed them in fourth quarters, including a decisive 30-17 edge in Game 2âs final period. Key Storylines and Matchups Celtics: Desperation and Adjustments Three-Point Shooting: Bostonâs offensive identity is predicated on volume threes, but poor shot selection and cold shooting have plagued them. In Game 1, many attempts were off the dribble or in transition, while Game 2 saw better looks but not enough attempts. The Celtics are 25-for-100 from deep in the series, a paltry 25%. Offensive Diversity: Thereâs growing pressure for Boston to diversify their attack-incorporating more drives, mid-range looks, and inside scoring to avoid predictability and exploit New Yorkâs defense. Star Power: Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown must assert themselves, especially in late-game situations where the Celtics have faltered. Derrick Whiteâs catch-and-shoot opportunities will be a barometer for Bostonâs offensive flow. Resilience: Under Joe Mazzulla, Boston is 9-4 straight up and against the spread after a loss, and 23-10 since 2019-20, suggesting a strong bounce-back profile. Knicks: Home-Court Momentum and Defensive Identity Mitchell Robinsonâs Impact: Robinson has been a game-changer, especially on defense and the glass. The Knicks have outscored Boston by 32 points in his 43 minutes, and his pick-and-roll defense has stifled the Celticsâ ball-handlers. New Yorkâs rebounding advantage with Robinson on the floor (51.5% of available rebounds) has neutralized Bostonâs usual edge. Clutch Execution: Jalen Brunson has been the Knicksâ engine, delivering 46 points, 12 assists, and seven rebounds through two games, and excelling in clutch moments. OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges have provided two-way production, with Anunobyâs defense and Bridgesâ timely scoring pivotal. Karl-Anthony Towns: Townsâ offensive outburst in Game 2 gave New York another dimension, and his ability to stretch Bostonâs bigs will be crucial. Fourth-Quarter Dominance: The Knicks have closed games with poise, outscoring Boston and making key plays on both ends. Tactical Keys Bostonâs Adjustments: Expect the Celtics to push for more balanced offense, attacking the paint and seeking higher-quality threes. Defensive intensity must rise, especially against Brunsonâs drives and Townsâ pick-and-pop action. Knicksâ Formula: New York will continue to leverage Robinsonâs rim protection, aggressive perimeter defense, and timely double-big lineups. Offensively, theyâll look to get Brunson downhill and keep Towns involved before the fourth quarter, not just as a late-game option. Pace and Physicality: Both games have gone under the total, reflecting playoff-level defense and slower pace. Expect another grind-it-out affair, with every possession contested. Betting & Statistical Trends Spread & Total: Boston is a 5.5-point favorite on the road, with the over/under set at 206.5 points. Despite the Knicksâ momentum, oddsmakers still favor the Celticsâ talent and desperation. Home/Road Splits: Boston has won 5 of their last 6 at MSG, but the Knicks are 28-16 at home this season and 8-4 against the spread in their last 12 home games. Prediction & Outlook Game 3 sets up as a must-win for Boston and a defining moment for New York. The Celticsâ ability to rediscover their shooting touch and diversify their offense will be critical, but the Knicksâ defense, rebounding, and late-game execution give them a real shot to extend their lead. Expect a physical, intense matchup with both teams making adjustments, but the pressure and atmosphere at Madison Square Garden could make this the most competitive game of the series yet