As the 2025 National Basketball Association Playoffs hit full stride, the Boston Celtics are dominating their competition and eyeing a trip to the finals for the second year in a row. After beating the Orlando Magic in five games in the first round, Boston now enters the Eastern Conference Semifinals with a healthy roster and momentum as they face off against the New York Knicks on Monday, May 5 in Boston. 

The Celtics concluded the regular season with an impressive 61–21 record, earning the second seed in the East. Boston’s first- round opponent, the Orlando Magic, posed a unique challenge, capitalizing on their aggressive gameplay and wowing the fans with their resilience on the court. Led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, Orlando stole Game three at home. However, the Celtics were unfazed and quickly responded with a 102-89 win in Game Four, closing the series back in Boston in Game five. 

As expected, Jayson Tatum continued his success on the court, proving his dominance and leadership and averaging over 24.2 points in his post season showings. Jaylen Brown complemented him well, providing crucial scoring and solid wing defense. 

The Celtics now face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Semifinals — a team they swept in the regular season. If needed, the teams will play 7 games up until May 19. New York enters the series af- ter a gritty first-round victory, led by Jalen Brunson and their big man, Karl-Anthony Towns. Boston will have to couple their potent offense with a gritty and resilient defense, anchored by Defensive Player of the Year finalist Derrick White and supported by Brown and Jrue Holiday. Offensively, the Celtics rely on ball movement and three-point shooting. They led the league in three-pointers made during the regular season, and that trend has carried into the playoffs. Tatum and Brown are dangerous from behind the arc, and Kristaps Porziņņhas the ability to pull defenders out to the arc creates space for driving lanes and cuts, furthering their offensive game. 

Health has been critical in the Celtics' strong playoff showing so far. Throughout the sea- son and even in the first round, many of the Celtics' key leaders were injured. But as they enter the second round, their team is nearly at full strength, posing a dangerous threat to their opposition. 

Looking ahead, the Celtics' championship window remains wide open, but nothing is guaranteed. The East is a competi- tive division; every opponent will give it their best shot. In an increasingly competitive league, the Celtics stand out, not just for their record or talent, but for how they’ve improved as a team, calling on their team morale and leadership. Unless an Eastern Conference rival can knock them off course, Boston has a good chance of heading back to the NBA finals.