Knicks at Celtics Preview: Odds, Picks & Analysis

The New York Knicks are having one of their strongest regular seasons in recent memory. Late on, the Knicks are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, with dominant wins such as 132-101 over the Washington Wizards (Feb 3) and 112-100 over the Los Angeles Lakers (Feb 1, spoiling LeBron James' visit to Madison Square Garden).

The Knicks have excelled with balanced play, ranking high in offensive efficiency and solid defense. They've shown depth and resilience, with big wins over top teams and blowouts. Overall, this is a breakout season for the Knicks. They boast an elite offensive/defensive balance, star performances, and a hot streak that positions them as legitimate Eastern threats.

In a similar way, the Boston Celtics are off to a strong start, maintaining their status as a top Eastern Conference contender. The Celtics have been consistent with elite defense and solid offense. They excel at balanced play, three-point volume, and limiting opponents.

The Celtics feature a mix of established stars and key contributors, with Jaylen Brown leading the scoring. Overall, it's a resilient season for the Celtics. Boston brings excellent defense, balanced contributions, and momentum despite key injuries. They're positioned for a deep playoff run if they maintain health and consistency.

Knicks at Celtics Preview

On Sunday, February 8, 2026, the Boston Celtics will host the New York Knicks at TD Garden in Boston, MA. Tipoff is at 12:30 p.m. ET, with ABC providing media coverage.

Public Betting Odds Factors

The Knicks are dealing with several injuries as of early February 2026, primarily ankle-related issues impacting depth and bench players. Their core stars—Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and Og Anunoby—remain healthy and available.

Of great concern is that the Celtics are managing several injuries as of February 4, 2026, with key absences impacting their frontcourt and wing depth. Jalen Brown is a game-time decision to head the list.

Knicks at Celtics Predictions

Handicapping Factors to Consider

The Knicks hold a significant advantage in the paint, led by the shot-blocking and rebounding prowess of Mitchell Robinson and the frontcourt presence of Karl-Anthony Towns. The team that controls the boards often controls the outcome in this matchup.

The Knicks are currently on fire and are playing with high confidence as a top Eastern Conference seed and getting a lot of respect against the NBA spread.

Ultimately, the matchup often comes down to the Knicks' ability to execute their game plan and control the paint against the Celtics.

Knicks at Celtics Prime Best Bet: New York Knicks and Under the Total

Knicks at Celtics Betting Tips

New York Knicks

New York ranks 7^th for scoring offense, 13^th for field goal percentage, 3^rd for 3-point field goal percentage, 11^th for free throw percentage, and 3rd for offensive rebounding.

The Knicks rank 6th in scoring defense, 3rd in 3-point field goals, 7th in field goal percentage allowed, 20th in 3-point field goal percentage allowed, and 4th in defensive rebounding.

The Knicks are 33-18 straight up, 27-23-1 against the spread, and 25-26 over/under the total.

Late on, New York has covered nine consecutive games.

While the Knicks have gone under the total in eight of their previous eight matchups.

Boston Celtics

Boston is 16^th in scoring offense, 16^th for point field goal percentage, 10^th for 3-point field goals, 13^th for free throw percentage, and 11^th for offensive rebounding.

The Celtics rank 2nd in scoring defense, 3rd in field goal percentage allowed, 18th in 3-point field goal percentage allowed, and 7th in defensive rebounding.