The Boston Celtics are revving up for what seems likely to be a more challenging second round playoff matchup than their five-game first round series victory against the Orlando Magic proved to be. The first contest between the Celtics and the New York Knicks is scheduled for Monday,

On New York's end of the equation, the Knicks were able to outlast a pesky, young Detroit Pistons squad to win the prize of facing the Celtics, and appear to have done so without picking up any major injuries to key players as well. Can the Knicks give Boston more than one loss in this series?

Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics are the defending NBA champions and still feel like they have plenty to prove in the 2025 NBA playoffs. After taking care of Dallas last June, the Celtics have flown under the radar for much of this season.