Knicks Seek Upset Over Celtics in Playoff Opener

The Boston Celtics enter their playoff series against the New York Knicks as overwhelming favorites, having swept the Knicks in the regular season and boasting odds as high as -800 to advance. The Celtics are at full strength with key players healthy and have consistently dominated the Knicks, averaging 125 points per game and outscoring them by significant margins. Most analysts and experts, including a unanimous ESPN panel, predict Boston will win the series easily, with only a few expecting it to be competitive. Despite this, Knicks players like Josh Hart maintain a confident and carefree mindset, dismissing regular-season outcomes and external expectations, while emphasizing internal focus and team resilience. For the Knicks to stand a chance, experts note they must excel in rebounding and capitalize on any rare off-nights from Boston's prolific three-point shooters. The series is widely seen as a test of whether the underdog Knicks can overcome the odds and challenge the reigning champions.