Game 3 is here, and the Boston Celtics are walking into enemy territory with their backs slammed against the wall. Down 0-2 in the Eastern Conference semifinals, Boston has no more room for moral victories.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks are holding all the momentum. And maybe the keys to the city, too, after stealing both games in Boston. Now, it’s Madison Square Garden time. Saturday, May 10. Pressure’s up, and the vibes are electric.
Celtics vs. Knicks: Injury Report and Predicted Lineups for Game 3
Let’s start with the health check. The Celtics are rolling into Game 3 almost fully loaded. The only hiccup is Sam Hauser, who’s listed as day-to-day with an ankle tweak. Not ideal for spacing, but it’s not a total disaster either.
Everyone else is locked in, so expect head coach Joe Mazzulla to stick with the familiar five.
- Derrick White
- Jaylen Brown
- Jrue Holiday
- Jayson Tatum
- Al Horford
Same squad, different stakes.
The Knicks, meanwhile, are entering Game 3 healthier than ever. Not a single name is on their injury report, and it’s all systems go. Head coach Tom Thibodeau is likely sticking to what’s worked.
- Jalen Brunson
- Mikal Bridges
- Josh Hart
- OG Anunoby
- Karl-Anthony Towns
That starting five has been gritty, disruptive, and surprisingly clutch when it counts. The kind of stuff that’s been driving Boston fans up the wall.
Predictions and What To Expect in Game 3
Boston has been dominating three quarters of each game so far. But come crunch time, it’s been all New York.
The Celtics’ 3-point shooting has been just brutal (25-of-100 across two games). That’s a backbreaker for a team that lives (and dies) by the long ball. If Tatum, Brown, or White can’t get hot from deep, this could spiral fast.
Tatum has put up 23 and 13 points in the first two games, respectively, but far from superstar takeover mode. On the other side, Brunson has dropped 29 and 17, steering New York’s offense and rhythm like a seasoned floor general. Add Hart’s hustle, Anunoby’s defensive presence, and Towns eating space down low, and you’ve got a Knicks team that looks more locked in than anyone expected.
Still, Boston isn’t cooked yet. If there’s a bounce back in store, it starts with better spacing, more urgency in late-game possessions, and some of that championship-caliber poise. It’s Game 3 in the Garden, and it might just be the most important night of the Celtics’ season.
Nevertheless, my prediction is that the Knicks will likely keep it rolling with a win. Boston will put up a fight, but right now, New York is just hungrier and hotter.