Celtics vs. Knicks Prediction: Boston Battles Pressure in Crucial Game 4 Showdown

• by Arlen Fitzpatrick
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Pressure Mounts: Celtics Face the Knicks in a Do-or-Die Game 4

The stakes couldn't be higher right now for the Boston Celtics. After surrendering two straight home games—in which they somehow lost double-digit leads—Boston's once comfortable postseason march has hit a wall. Their first win in Game 3 only gave them a lighter burden; down 2-1 in the series against the New York Knicks, there's no more room for mental lapses or lazy defense. Dropping one more game means facing a nearly impossible climb out of a 3-1 hole, especially with the Knicks gaining confidence in every fourth quarter they own.

All eyes will be on Jayson Tatum. Boston's star has carried a huge load lately, rebuilding trust after watching huge advantages slip away more than once this postseason. He needs help, especially on defense, but his ability to create and finish could tilt the scales. Meanwhile, New York’s Jalen Brunson has become the heartbeat of the Knicks’ lineup. His scoring flurries and clutch play in comeback wins have the Madison Square Garden crowd buzzing and betting markets on edge.

Betting Angles: Celtics Favored, But Cautious Optimism Reigns

Oddsmakers still have faith in Boston, marking the Celtics as 6.5-point favorites for Game 4. The moneyline sits at -250 for Boston, while the Knicks are +205 underdogs—clear respect for the road team’s firepower, but also a nod to Boston’s experience and desperate urgency. The over/under for total points is set narrowly between 209 and 210.5, which isn’t surprising once you break down these rosters. Yes, the Celtics flash offensive spark when things click, but lately, both teams' defense has suffocated open looks and forced the pace to grind down, especially late in games.

Many sharp bettors are leaning toward the under, citing Boston’s inconsistent shooting and New York’s gritty half-court schemes. Even with some offensive stars on the floor, these teams have shown flashes of regression, particularly when nerves get tight and possessions matter more. A score in the low 100s wouldn’t shock anyone watching the last two matchups.

This pivotal Game 4 tips off at 7:30 PM ET at the always rowdy Madison Square Garden. With national coverage on ESPN and the NBA League Pass, expect pressure, storylines, and maybe plenty of sweating—both from the players and anyone brave enough to bet the over. The Celtics must prove they can execute and close, or the Knicks might just take the most commanding lead they’ve seen in years.