Celtics vs. Knicks Game 3: Best Bets & Stats Preview

The NBA Playoffs intensify as the Boston Celtics face off against the New York Knicks in Game 3. Analysts Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers dissect the betting angles on RJ Bell’s Dream Preview, focusing on team dynamics, pace, and historical patterns. This article breaks down their key insights, revealing why the Knicks team total under 99.5 is the standout bet.

 Betting Strategy: Defensive Lean

Munaf starts by questioning whether Boston's expected win would result from an offensive surge or a defensive lockdown. Mackenzie swiftly leans toward the latter. Boston's defense is statistically dominant following a loss—an edge bettors shouldn't ignore.

 Celtics Post-Loss Dominance

Mackenzie outlines powerful trends:

• 65% ATS (against-the-spread) after a loss since 2022.

• 80% of Boston’s positive ATS margin stems from defense.

• In the playoffs, they are 16-6 after a loss, with 95% of ATS success driven by defense.

• On the road after a playoff loss: 11-2 SU and ATS.

This defense-first identity makes Boston a trustworthy team in bounce-back scenarios.

 Knicks' Scoring Struggles

Munaf highlights the Knicks’ declining offensive output:

• Game 1: 100 points in regulation.

• Game 2: Just 91 points.

• Current team total line: 99.5 points.

These numbers indicate a consistent trend of low scoring, especially against Boston’s tightening defense.

 Tempo and Timing Impact

Both teams are the slowest paced in the playoffs. This, combined with elite half-court defense, sets the tone for a grind-it-out series. Additionally, Game 3’s early tip-off (3:30 PM ET) could lead to even slower play. Mackenzie refers to this as "diurnal variation," a biological rhythm affecting player energy and tempo earlier in the day.

 Double Best Bet: Knicks Team Total Under

Both analysts settle on the Knicks Team Total Under 99.5 as their best bet:

• Mackenzie: “Double best bet that with you.”

• Munaf: “That will be my best bet here.”

It’s rare to see two experts align so completely, emphasizing the strength of the case.

Additional Player Insights

• Jalen Brunson shot just 36% in Game 2.

• Mikal Bridges was ineffective for 30 minutes.

Their struggles reflect broader offensive issues that are unlikely to resolve quickly, especially under defensive pressure from the Celtics.

 Total Score Line Drop

The betting market is adjusting accordingly:

• Game 1 total: 213

• Game 2 total: 211

• Game 3 total: 205

This declining trend confirms that oddsmakers anticipate continued low scoring.

 Final Thoughts

The Celtics vs. Knicks Game 3 preview makes a compelling case for betting on defense and pace. The evidence—both statistical and situational—supports the Knicks Team Total Under 99.5 as the most reliable play.