The New York Knicks and Boston Celtics are set for a Game 6 showdown for the ages on May 17, 2025. With the Knicks holding a 3-2 series advantage, this game at Madison Square Garden is the world to both teams. Will the Celtics bounce back without their star, Jayson Tatum, and force a Game 7? Or will the Knicks close it out at home? Here is what you should know, from a Game 5 recap to lineups, predictions, and key matchups.

The Boston Celtics made a resounding statement in Game 5, blowing out the Knicks with a 127-102 victory at TD Garden. With Jayson Tatum lost to an ACL injury, the Celtics were lifted by Derrick White, who exploded for 34 points on 7-of-13 shooting from beyond the arc. Jaylen Brown acted like a floor general, contributing 26 points, 12 assists, and 8 rebounds.

Meanwhile, the Knicks were struggling to find offensive rhythm. Jalen Brunson fouled out with over seven minutes left and scored 22 points on 7-of-17 shooting. Josh Hart added 24 points but received little help from the rest of the roster while Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby were a combined 5-of-26. The Knicks' shooting struggles (35.8% from the field) and lack of second-half composure cost them dearly.

This Celtics win, though decisive, raises questions about their staying power without Tatum as they move on to Game 6.

• Jayson Tatum (Out): Tatum's torn Achilles has ruled him out for the remainder of the playoffs. Losing their top scorer and MVP-caliber leader is daunting, but the Celtics are 9-2 this season in games without Tatum, attesting to their resilience.

• Sam Hauser (Probable): Hauser, recovering from a right ankle sprain, is probable for Game 6. His return strengthens Boston's bench with some desperately needed three-point shooting.

• Kristaps Porzingis (Active, fatigue issues): Porzingis saw just 12 minutes in Game 5 due to shortness of breath but should see action in Game 6. Given how vital he is at both ends, his health will be a narrative to follow.

You can utilize the provided link to fill in the information for each game, such as scores, dates, and leading performers. This table offers a simple and easy method of displaying the analysis.

• There are no reported significant injuries for the Knicks.

Without Tatum, the Celtics' offensive game plan depends more on Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Kristaps Porzingis. In particular, Brown needs to duplicate his Game 5 performance, when he dished out 12 assists, his playoff career high.

• PG: Jalen Brunson

• SG: Mikal Bridges

• SF: Josh Hart

• PF: OG Anunoby

• C: Karl-Anthony Towns

• PG: Jrue Holiday

• SG: Derrick White

• SF: Jaylen Brown

• PF: Al Horford

• C: Kristaps Porzingis

Both teams are reliant on rugged starting lineups, and these matchups will go a long way in determining the pace and rhythm of the game.

Brunson is the engine of the Knicks' offense, but Holiday remains one of the NBA's premier defenders. It will be crucial for New York to keep Brunson healthy from foul trouble.

Hart's defensive versatility and glass work will be challenged by Brown's high-scoring potential. The matchup has the potential to tilt both rebounding matchups and transition play.

The big men showdown offers intrigue in this series. Both gentlemen offer inside and outside scoring, but Porzingis' rim protection, if healthy enough, has the ability to neutralize Towns' effectiveness in the paint.

With White coming off a career-high evening in Game 5, Bridges will have his work cut out in trying to slow Boston's hot-shooting guard.

While the Knicks enjoy home-court advantage and a slimmer 55% chance of winning, according to Stake.com, the Celtics can ride the momentum of their Game 5 rout to a close-out Game 6 win. Expect Derrick White to continue his scoring streak, as well as Jaylen Brown's all-around brilliance.

Final Prediction: Boston Celtics 113, New York Knicks 110

• Knicks Win: 1.73

• Celtics Win: 2.08

• Point Spread: Knicks -1.5 (1.81), Celtics +1.5 (1.97)

This points to a very tight matchup, making it perfect for fans and punters.

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Game 6 is setting up to be a nail-biter as the Celtics and Knicks battle it out for control. Will the Knicks secure their spot in the conference finals, or will Boston take it to a heart-stopping Game 7? Whatever the outcome, basketball enthusiasts are in for a delight.

Stay tuned for post-game analysis and continued coverage of the NBA Playoffs.