PREVIEW: The 2-seeded Boston Celtics will host the 3-seeded New York Knicks in their Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup , marking a renewal of one of basketball's fiercest rivalries. Boston dominated the regular-season series, sweeping New York with an average margin of victory of 16.3 points per game , but playoff basketball introduces new variables that could reshape this dynamic. The Knicks bring elite perimeter defense, ranking 3rd in few shots allowed attacking the rim and 3rd in efficient three-point shooting , while their offensive approach emphasizes spacing and a slower tempo. Jayson Tatum scorched the Magic in the first round, averaging 31.3 points and scoring 35-plus points in three consecutive games , setting the stage for a potential showdown against New York's defensive specialists. Boston's elite perimeter defense ranks first in allowing low-quality three-pointers, yet paradoxically ranks 28th in three-point attempts allowed , suggesting opponents are choosing to avoid shooting deep against them. The Celtics shot exceptionally well against New York during the regular season, making 84-of-196 three-pointers across four matchups, including an NBA record-tying 29 makes on Opening Night. Derrick White, one of Boston's most reliable weapons against the Knicks this season, made at least four three-pointers in all four matchups with a 54.3 percent success rate. Jalen Brunson, the 2024-25 Clutch Player of the Year, led the league in clutch field goals and closed out Detroit with a series-winning three-pointer in Game 6 , giving New York a closer capable of winning tight moments.