Playoff Predictions and Wagers (May 16-18): Celtics and OKC Expected to Beat the Line

In a thrilling turn of events, the Nuggets and Celtics are both fighting to stay alive in their respective playoff series, each scoring a crucial victory in their must-win games. The Nuggets are gearing up for a challenging Game 7, as they aim to deal the final blow on the road, where they're perceived as weaker. On the other hand, the Celtics face an uphill battle in the absence of their star player, Jayson Tatum, who's recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon.

For basketball enthusiasts, the weekend promises a rollercoaster of excitement with two more nail-biting contests. Let's break down the upcoming matchups and our top picks for these two games.

Matchup 1: Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks

In a do-or-die scenario, the Boston Celtics journey to Madison Square Garden for Game 6 against the New York Knicks. Trailing 3-2 in the series, Boston has showcased remarkable resilience, winning impressively in Game 5 despite Jayson Tatum's absence.

As they continue without their superstar, the Celtics will need to rely on Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, who have stepped up admirably. The Knicks enter as 2.5-point favorites, with a total points over/under set at 211.5 points. We recommend considering the Celtics +2.5 points, as they've demonstrated their ability to compete even in Tatum's absence. Additionally, a wager on the under 211.5 total points may be wise, given the increased defense and caution that typically comes with elimination games.

Game

Matchup 2: Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

Date

The Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder clash in a decisive Game 7 of their 2025 Western Conference semifinal series. The Nuggets forced this final game by winning Game 6, with a remarkable 119-107 victory powered by Jamal Murray's 25 points and a stellar team effort, including Julian Strawther's unexpected 15 points. The Thunder, with a 3-2 lead before this game, boast a formidable home record (38-7). Our recommendation is to take the Thunder to cover the spread (-7.5), given their strong home performance and bench depth. You might also consider betting on the total points to go over 212.5, as both teams have demonstrated the ability to score in abundance, especially in high-stakes situations.

Tip

Regardless of the outcome, these upcoming matches promise an electrifying, action-packed weekend of basketball. Happy betting, folks, and may the best team win!

Alternative bet

*Disclaimer: Sports betting carries inherent risks, and outcomes can be unpredictable. The recommendations offered here are based on current data and analysis but should not be viewed as guarantees of success.

On a side note, as we move towards the final NBA quarterfinal matchups, it's time to round out your parlay betslip with some baseball games! The MLB is gearing up for its first-ever Rivalry Weekend, and our experts are ready with picks to help you make the most of the excitement.

Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks

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Friday, May 16

Data Sources:

Celtics to Cover the Spread

[[1]] https://bleacherreport.com/nba/articles/2967558-boston-celtics-jayson-tatum-ruptures-right-achilles-trades-tributes-pour-in

Under on Points

[[2]] https://www.si.com/nba/2025/05/13/jayson-tatum-injury-ruptured-achilles-tennis

Over on Points

[[3]] https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/34945471/boston-celtics-jayson-tatum-ruptures-right-achilles-sends-team-nba-playoffs

Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

[[4]] https://www.cbssports.com/nba/playoffs/2025/series/NE-v-NY/celtics-knicks-series-score-game-5-odds-result/

Sunday, May 18

[[5]] https://www.sbnation.com/2025/05/15/nba-playoffs-2025-celtics-knicks-game-5-recap-scores-best-plays

Thunder to Cover the Spread

In the upcoming Game 6 between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks, the Celtics, despite being without their star player Jayson Tatum, have exhibited remarkable resilience and may cover the 2.5-point spread.
The total points over/under for the Boston Celtics versus New York Knicks game is set at 211.5 points, and a bet on the under could be a wise choice given the increased defense and caution typically displayed in elimination games.
In the decisive Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinal series between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder, the Thunder, with their strong home record and bench depth, are recommended to cover the spread of -7.5 points.
A bet on the total points in the Denver Nuggets versus Oklahoma City Thunder game to go over 212.5 could potentially be profitable, as both teams have shown the ability to score in high-stakes situations.
As baseball's first-ever Rivalry Weekend approaches, consider adding some MLB games to your parlay betslip after seeking advice from experts in the field.

Playoff Predictions and Wagers (May 16-18): Celtics and OKC Expected to Beat the Line