Knicks Shock Celtics in Game 1 Comeback as Jokić Headlines Wednesday’s Top NBA Bets
In a thrilling start to the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals, the New York Knicks stunned the Celtics with a dramatic 108–105 overtime victory at TD Garden. Despite trailing by 20 points in the third quarter, the Knicks mounted a gritty comeback behind the heroics of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby, seizing a 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven series against the Celtics.
Brunson led all scorers with 29 points, while Bridges and Anunoby anchored both ends of the floor, combining for 142 total minutes on the court. The trio’s relentless effort defined the Knicks’ identity throughout the game, especially during the fourth quarter and overtime, where New York outscored the Celtics 28–16 across both periods.
The Celtics came out firing from deep, attempting a staggering 60 three-pointers — the most in a single NBA playoff game. However, their reliance on the long ball backfired, as they converted just 25% (15 makes), including several ill-advised attempts down the stretch. Head coach Joe Mazzulla admitted postgame that “10 to 11” of those shots were poorly chosen, a sentiment echoed by Celtics fans and media alike.
Compounding the Celtics' issues was the absence of starting center Kristaps Porziņģis, who missed Game 1 due to illness. His absence was sorely felt, particularly on defense, where Luke Kornet — who started in Porziņģis’s place — struggled with foul trouble and was largely ineffective in the paint, hurting the Celtics' interior presence.
In contrast, the Knicks shot a composed 45.9% from beyond the arc, connecting on 17 of 37 attempts, including a 7-for-14 mark during the crucial late-game run. Their balanced approach, strong perimeter defense, and timely shot-making flipped the momentum and silenced a raucous Celtics crowd.
As the Celtics look to regroup for Game 2, bettors are already eyeing the next set of matchups, with Wednesday’s slate drawing particular attention from the betting community.
One of the top picks is Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić, who is coming off a dominant Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Jokić, who hauled in 22 rebounds in that game, is favored to go over 13.5 rebounds on Wednesday. He has averaged 15.8 rebounds per game against the Thunder during the regular season, making this a high-value prop for bettors — even for fans of the Celtics watching other series closely.
In addition to his rebounding dominance, Jokić has also emerged as a sneaky defensive factor. He has recorded three or more steals in four of his eight playoff appearances this season, and there's growing confidence in his all-around postseason impact — something the Celtics will be watching if they advance.
With the Knicks gaining unexpected early momentum and stars like Jokić continuing to perform at MVP levels, the 2025 NBA Playoffs are shaping up to be a must-watch spectacle — both on the court and at the sportsbook. The Celtics will need to retool both tactically and mentally to avoid another collapse.
Game 2 between the Knicks and Celtics tips off later this week, with the Celtics seeking to avoid a disastrous 0–2 hole before the series shifts to Madison Square Garden. All eyes will be on how the Celtics adjust their strategy, whether they can reassert their dominance, and if they can reclaim the momentum that defined their regular season. The Celtics’ postseason hopes now hang in the balance.
