Knicks vs Celtics Showdown: Can Underdogs Shock the Favorites in Tonight’s NBA Clash?

Sunday’s clash between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks is shaping up to be one heck of a showdown. Both teams are among the Eastern Conference’s elite, bringing intensity and grit to the hardwood at TD Garden. After a rare off-night where Jalen Brunson struggled mightily on offense, scoring just 12 points on dismal shooting, I’m betting he’ll be itching to prove everyone wrong and light up the scoreboard once again. This highly anticipated afternoon bout promises fireworks, and I’m here to break down the best plays and insights you don’t want to miss as these two powerhouses duke it out. LEARN MORE

Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference face off on Sunday when the Boston Celtics host the New York Knicks.

Jalen Brunson had one of his worst offensive performances of the season on Friday, and my Knicks vs. Celtics predictions expect a bounce-back performance from the superstar guard.

Here are my best free NBA picks for this heavyweight matinee matchup on Sunday, February 8.

Knicks vs Celtics prediction

Knicks vs Celtics best bet: Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 points (-105)

Jalen Brunson had arguably his worst offensive showing of the season on Friday as he finished with 12 points on 4 of 20 shooting. The 12 points tied his season low, not counting his five-minute game against the Sacramento Kings.

Brunson is averaging 27.1 points per game this season, and he’s scored at least 27 points in 14 of 22 road games. He also finished with 15 and 31 points in two tilts with the Boston Celtics.

This afternoon’s matchup is nationally televised with one of the Eastern Conference’s best teams, and I expect Brunson to bounce back under the bright lights.

Knicks vs Celtics same-game parlay

Nikola Vucevic made his Boston debut on Friday with an 11/12/4 line across 28 minutes. He averaged 29.7 PRA over 30.8 minutes with the Bulls and averaged 35 against the New York Knicks in two matchups.

The Knicks have hit the Under in eight of their last 10, and the Celtics have hit the Under in nine of 10, including seven straight. In this clash between strong defenses, I’ll take the Under on this low-scoring total.

Knicks vs Celtics SGP

Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 points
Nikola Vucevic Over 23.5 points+rebounds+assists
Under 213.5

Our “from downtown” SGP: Superstars shine

Jaylen Brown has gone for 29+ points in 30 of 47 games this season, and he’s reached that mark in seven of his last 10 — including three straight.

Knicks vs Celtics SGP

Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 points
Nikola Vucevic Over 23.5 points+rebounds+assists
Under 213.5
Jaylen Brown Over 28.5 points

Knicks vs Celtics odds

Spread: Knicks +4 (-115) | Celtics -4 (-105)
Moneyline: Knicks +145 | Celtics -170
Over/Under: Over 213.5 | Under 213.5

Knicks vs Celtics betting trend to know

The Boston Celtics have hit the game total Under in 19 of their last 25 games (+12.40 Units / 45% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Knicks vs. Celtics.

How to watch Knicks vs Celtics

Location	TD Garden, Boston, MA
Date	Sunday, February 8, 2026
Tip-off	12:30 p.m. ET
TV	ABC

Knicks vs Celtics latest injuries

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