2 min read • May 02, 2025
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The second NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup is set as the New York Knicks will take on the Boston Celtics in a battle of some of the oldest and most popular NBA franchises.
The New York Knicks defeated the Detroit Pistons in six games and won the series clincher on an exciting game-winner from Jalen Brunson. The Celtics had a gentlemen’s sweep over Orlando, who weren’t at full strength with two of their stars, Jalen Suggs and Mo Wagner out for the series.
The New York Knicks may appear to have a clean sheet on their injury report as they come out of that series vs Detroit, however they do have some serious injury concerns. Jalen Brunson came into the series with ankle concerns, that reappeared in Game 4. He sustained a serious ankle sprain on March 6 that saw him 15 straight games and then appeared to tweak the same ankle in Game 4 on April 27. He exited briefly, but still managed to score 32pts in that game. Though he averaged 31.5pts and 8.2ast per game in that series, the ankle is always going to be a concern and we will monitor closely.
The Boston Celtics have two injury concerns to two of their main rotational players in Jrue Holiday and Jaylen Brown. Jrue Holiday missed the final three games of the series vs Orlando with a hamstring strain. The Celtics don’t appear to be too concerned about a long term injury for Holiday and with a few days rest in between series, that should help his recovery, and he expects to be an important defensive piece against Jalen Brunson.
Jaylen Brown could be a bigger concern for the Celtics as he is arguably their best player and the reigning NBA Finals MVP. He’s found himself on the injury list for a few of the games vs Orlando with a right knee injury, but the Celtics haven’t been specific as to the nature of the injury, though it is a concern. Be that as it may, it hasn’t stopped Jaylen Brown from playing his usual minutes at 35.8 or hindered his production much at 23pts/7.6reb. He will be closely monitored, but he will benefit from a few days like Holiday will.
While Jalen Brunson’s ankle remains a key watch for New York, Boston is hoping to have both Jrue Holiday and Jaylen Brown at full strength in time for Game 1. With star power on both sides and decades of rivalry between these storied franchises, this matchup is set to deliver intensity, drama, and playoff basketball at its finest.
The Knicks won Game 1 in overtime 108-105. Both Brunson and OG Anunoby scored 29 points for New York.
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The Knicks advance to face the Celtics in the semis‼️ Boston was 4-0 against New York during the season 👀
